The Spread of Knowledge Management in SMEs: A Scenario in Evolution

Abstract

This paper deals with knowledge management (KM) in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Through a literature review, three research questions have been identified concerning the barriers hindering the spread of KM practices in SMEs, the main knowledge management systems (KMSs) adopted by SMEs and the impact of the use of KM practices on SME performance. The research questions were subsequently addressed through a field analysis conducted on a sample of SMEs. The empirical evidence highlights that the scenario has changed in the space of but a few years. Although SMEs are generally characterized by poor financial and human resources, they are able to overcome the barriers preventing the spread of KM practices. The SMEs investigated perceive the strategic value of KM and consequently adopt a variety of KMSs. Nevertheless, such systems are generally outdated in comparison with cheaper, more recent, and user-friendly applications. Finally, the paper emphasizes that the use of KM practices can contribute to the overall growth of SMEs by simultaneously and significantly enhancing their performance.

Firm Sustainability Performance Index Modeling

“…Literature on sustainability management studies have been highlighted that knowledge management [2][3][4], business strategy [5,6], and organizational learning [7,8] are considered as vital indicators of firm sustainability performance improvement. Some researchers confirm that knowledge management and its output, organizational knowledge, are antecedents of organizational learning [9,10] and company business strategy [11,12].…”

Building knowledge-creation for making business competition atmosphere in SMEs of Batik

“…Although studies have revealed that knowledge creation and human resources are still low, but the application of knowledge creation can improve the competitiveness and performance of SMEs (Cerchione et al, 2015). Knowledge creation and technology mastery in SMEs are different from the theory of knowledge creation frequently encountered in big companies.…”

“…The use of information technology plays a very big role, especially when supported by government policies that support the technology sector (Raf, 2000). Cerchione et al (2015) state that the use of IT provides a support for the management strategies associated with the aspect of communication, access to information, decisionmaking, data management and knowledge management in an organization. IT can be a strategic force and an organizational tool that benefits the promotional aspects and competitiveness (Carr, 2005).…”

Digital knowledge generation and the appropriability trade-off

“…ICT made it possible to improve drastically the economic value of the large stock of knowledge available in the system and to reduce its costs of absorption (Antonelli, Geuna, Steinmueller, 2000). Cerchione Esposito and Spadaro (2015) document the wide range of specific computer applications that enable to widen the search in the stock of external knowledge available in the system. The use of the new ICT based techniques enables to overcome the classical separation of scientific and technological knowledge.…”