Factors affecting knowledge management success: The fit perspective

Purpose – This study extends the viewpoint of “fit as holistic configurations” to explore how to use knowledge management (KM) processes and knowledge management system (KMS) capabilities appropriately according to the tasks characteristics subunits perform in an aerospace manufacturer. In this regard, the aim is to develop four theoretical ideal profiles of KM processes (socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization) and KMS capabilities (codification capability and network capability) for organizational subunits based on their task characteristics: focused, process‐oriented tasks; focused, content‐oriented tasks; broad, process‐oriented tasks; and focused, content‐oriented tasks.Design/methodology/approach – The empirical study was conducted at a knowledge intensive and engineering‐oriented aerospace company. Twelve functional subunits performing a variety of tasks were selected as the samples. The study employed qualitative and quantitative methods to understand the subunits' task at...

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