Author: Joan Baiget Solé
Programme: Doctoral Programme on the Information and Knowledge Society
Language: Spanish
Supervisor: Dr Rafael Andreu
Subjects: Theories and Methodology in Social Sciences, Economics
Key words: Knowledge management, Firm specific knowledge, Economy, research and experimental development, General economy - Other (knowledge management)
Area of knowledge: Knowledge Management
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Summary:
In the context of the modern Information and Knowledge Society, this dissertation aims to provide an empirical basis for the theory of knowledge management as well as theoretical observations to improve it in practice.
Our starting working hypothesis was the belief that the development of firm-specific knowledge (as it is known in the academic literature) provides firms with sustainable competitive advantages. We used the findings of three studies on knowledge and competitiveness management carried out over the course of a decade (2001, 2005, 2009).
While there is clear evidence of firm-specific knowledge building through organizational learning mechanisms, very little of it is observable in knowledge management practices – which should, in reality, be maximizing its potential. This would explain the significant discrepancy between two key aspects in how companies regard knowledge, as tested by the questionnaire:
- "The Importance of Knowledge as a Strategic Asset" – 93.6%
- "The Adequate Management of Knowledge by the Firm" – 16.5%
Knowledge is very important but is not properly managed.