Knowledge Sharing as a Powerful Base for Management Barriers and Solutions

Abstract

Knowledge or information sharing (KIS) is an important aspect of organizational knowledge management (KM). Several factors affect the KIS process. This study investigates KM from a managerial viewpoint using a theoretical model that was developed based on a literature review conducted to evaluate KIS. This model was then tested for validity and reliability using an expert panel. Finally, an analysis was conducted on data collected from a survey of top and midlevel managers at Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education covering knowledge sharing, its barriers, and solutions. More than 90% of managers believe that the most important barriers to implementing a KIS system are limitations brought about by specialized knowledge, a culture of independent working, nonstandard processes, and a lack of a proper system for KIS. The results suggest that a successful implementation of KM initiatives depends on a careful consideration of the organizational culture, employee education levels, and previous knowledge of the benefits of KM.