Knowledge sharing processes in Tunisian small ICT firms

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how knowledge and information is shared by small information and communication technology firms in Tunisia.Design/methodology/approachThe paper employs a comparative case study approach. This was intended to collect data that describe processes and also to elicit information about the reasons for these processes. The authors set the study in the context of a developing country.FindingsIt was found that information and knowledge is key to the operational success of these companies. Knowledge, and its application, is crucial to their competitive advantage. The companies have developed very useful internal systems for sharing information. They also have efficient methods for tapping into existing external knowledge. However, evidence was also found of immature national information sharing systems. The authors attribute this to the level of development in Tunisia and to the understandable attitudes of the firm owners.Research limitations/implicationsWhilst unable to generalise empirically beyond these cases, the authors can conceptually generalise that these processes are likely to be common in similar national contexts. The implication is then that developing countries such as Tunisia may need to invest more in creating knowledge hubs.Originality/valueThe paper contributes by describing knowledge sharing in a less well‐researched area. Conceptually, it offers an appreciation of how knowledge sharing works in less‐developed regions.

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