Developing a model for knowledge sharing in research centers

Abstract

Purpose -Knowledge sharing (KS) of employees has numerous benefits for organizations. Therefore, the aim of this study is to provide a model for KS in research centers (RCs) that can facilitate the employee's knowledge sharing behavior (KSB). Design/methodology/approach -Based on the extensive literature review, a valid instrument was adopted to collect the required data set on KS, KSB and intention to KS, and finally 317 complete questionnaires were collected from Iranian research centers. The structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to assess the measurement model and to test the research hypotheses. Findings -The findings show that intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors and intention to methods of KS play an important role in KSB. In other words, simultaneous supply of motivational factors and KS methods interesting for employees lead to their KSB. The SEM confirmed the research model and showed a good fit of it. Practical implications -The implication emanating from this study is that the employees' KSB in RCs as a significant part depends on simultaneous supplying of motivational factors (especially intrinsic motivational factors) and methods of KS that are interesting for employees. Originality/value -What distinguishes this study from other studies in KS domain could be implied in two subjects. First, the presented model is simple and prepared of the introduced factors, which will lead to KSB. Second, this study was conducted in diverse research fields such as electrical and electronics, telecommunications, materials, chemistry, biotechnology, information technology, management and industrial engineering, computer network security, mechanical and manufacturing. The research model was derived from the collected data of these areas that is unique in this domain.

Testing knowledge sharing effectiveness: trust, motivation, leadership style, workplace spirituality and social network embedded model

“…In order to operationalization of the constructs, this research adapted scales from Kuo (2013) research for measuring trust and perceived risk (Trust-Tr-3 items; Perceived Risk-Pr), Akhavan et al, (2013) research for measuring intrinsic and extrinsic motivation (Intrinsic Motivation-Int-4items, Extrinsic Motivation-Extrn-4 items), Hoch (2014) for measuring the leadership style (lead-4 items), Snyder and Lee-Partridge (2013) research for measuring communication skill (Cs-4items), Zabriskie (2005) research for measuring spirituality(Ws-4items), Panahi et al (2012) study for measuring online social network variable. In the first phase of the data analysis this research will utilize confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to support the factor structure.…”

The Effect of Leader Trust and Knowledge Sharing on Staff Satisfaction at Work: Investigation of Universities in Syria

“…Prior research on knowledge sharing provides different definitions on knowledge sharing including the perception of knowledge sharing as a voluntary behaviour by an individual who provides access of his /her knowledge and experience to other members of the organization (Akhavan, Rahimi, & Mehralian, 2013). Knowledge sharing is perceived as a dynamic learning process where organizations constantly interact with clients and suppliers to innovate or creatively innovate (Cummings, 2003).…”

“…Knowledge sharing behaviour scale is developed and based on Zárraga and Bonache (2003), Hsu-Hsin, Tzu-Shian, and Ju-Sung (2011) and Akhavan et al (2013). In this current study, the knowledge sharing behaviour scale was modified and adapted for the purpose and design of research.…”

Exploring Multidimensional View of Intellectual Capital and Business Ethics on Organizational Performance by Using Bootstrapping Method: Evidence from Pakistani Pharmaceutical Industry

“…Financial capital is known to be the net equity of any organization, whereas the physical capital is the ability to provide products or services by providing the capability of an organization. IC is the most important capital of any organization that is relevant to knowledge and science capacity of the organization (Marr and Schiuma, 2001;Akhavan et al, 2013).…”