Influence of motivational factors on knowledge sharing methods and knowledge creation process in an emerging economic context

Abstract

The present study aims to extend our understanding of motivational factors that improve the knowledge sharing intention of employees thereby can lead to creating knowledge successfully. Specifically, we aim to extend previous knowledge management research to contribute to both knowledge sharing theory and knowledge creation process with consideration of motivational factors including socialization, externalization, combination and internalization. This study has used quantitative research methodology wherein the data have been collected from 405 students from various universities in Iran using a survey questionnaire. Structural equation modelling has been applied to test the hypotheses of the study. The findings of the study reveal that motivational factors positively influence knowledge sharing and knowledge creation. Results reveal that motivational factors tend to increase the usage of knowledge sharing methods, and consequently, they impact on the creation process of knowledge. Further, motivational factors act as a mediator between knowledge sharing and knowledge creation. This study has limitations that present opportunities for future research. First, the research context covered people from universities only, which limits the generalizability of findings. Second, we did not consider regional cultural differences, which could cause variations in people’ knowledge sharing intention. Future studies can build upon the research models to understand the influence of the cultural factors on other type of organisations. This research contributes to both knowledge sharing theory and knowledge creation process with consideration of motivational factors including socialization, externalization, combination and internalization. Thus, the study provides directions to managers to focus on cognitive social aspects (i.e., motivational factors) to encourage the people to share and create knowledge. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study is an early study conducted to examine the influence of motivational factors on knowledge sharing and knowledge creation. This research provides valuable information and guidelines that will be helpful for the managers to consider the important issues during knowledge creation establishment in the universities and organizations which are directly involved with creating knowledge.