Can return on investment in knowledge management initiatives in organizations be measured?

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maayan Nakash ◽  
Dan Bouhnik
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Management ◽  
Return On Investment ◽  
Objective Assessment ◽  
Business Environment ◽  
Performance Measure ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
High Status ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Content Type

PurposeThis paper focuses on the meanings attributed to the measurement of return on investment (ROI) in knowledge management (KM) initiatives in knowledge-intensive organizations. At the heart of this exploratory research is the introduction of a unique coherent perspective of discipline experts regarding the ROI metric, as part of their perception of assessing effectiveness in this field.Design/methodology/approachThe research begins with in-depth semi-structured personal interviews and continues with focus groups, as part of a qualitative research paradigm. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method, based on the grounded theory approach.FindingsThe findings provide empirical evidence regarding the significant challenges associated with the objective assessment of KM performance, which is deeply rooted in numerical-financial values. Despite the high status of ROI in the business environment, the authors find that decision-makers surprisingly avoid evaluating ROI for the most important resource of the organization, notwithstanding the immeasurable hopes that depend on this performance measure and the expectation of establishing the profitability of investment in organizational KM.Originality/valueThe uniqueness of this research is the adoption of the skeptical-critical research approach. For the first time, the authors interrogate the suitability and relevance of the general model of the ROI metric as a means of proving the value and contribution of well-managed knowledge to organizations. The authors call for adoption of a new integrative perspective for evaluating effectiveness, which will reflect the holistic set of KM in organizations.

Barriers, practices, methods and knowledge management tools in startups

2019 ◽  
Vol 23 (9) ◽  
pp. 1838-1856 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fábio Lotti Oliva ◽  
Masaaki Kotabe
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Management ◽  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Field Research ◽  
Business Environment ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Management Tools ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Development Level ◽  
Agile Organization ◽  
Knowledge Management Tools

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present the main barriers, practices, methods and knowledge management tools in startups that are characterized as agile organizations with dynamic capabilities to meet the demands of a business environment of high volatility, uncertainties, complexity and ambiguity. Design/methodology/approach The conceptual basis of the research focused on the triad: agile organization, dynamic capabilities and knowledge management. Field research began by interviewing experts to identify the barriers, practices, methods and knowledge management tools in startups. Based on the theoretical review, on the desk research and on the result of interviews with experts, a quantitative research was carried out with the leading startups coworking of São Paulo city. The obtained data made it possible to develop descriptive analyses and run linear regressions and cluster analysis for exploratory research. Findings Startups with higher maturity in innovation level, solution development level, and scalability development level, present a higher degree of utilization of the practices, methods and tools dedicated to knowledge management. Practical implications It is expected that results of the research presented in detail will be able to illustrate concrete examples of practices, methods, and knowledge management tools for large established companies seeking the organizational agility of startups. Originality/value This study contributes to the identification of barriers, practices, methods and tools of management of knowledge in startups, through the conceptual triad: agile organization, dynamic capabilities and knowledge management.

A bibliometric review of International Marketing Review (IMR): past, present, and future

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Naveen Donthu ◽  
Satish Kumar ◽  
Debidutta Pattnaik ◽  
Neeraj Pandey
Keyword(s):  
Export Performance ◽  
Objective Assessment ◽  
International Marketing ◽  
Business Environment ◽  
Primary Objective ◽  
Global Business ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Bibliographic Data ◽  
Bibliometric Review

PurposeThe primary objective of this endeavour is to form a retrospective overview of the International Marketing Review (IMR) and map its way forward.Design/methodology/approachA range of bibliometric techniques has been employed to analyse the performance of IMR and its stakeholders, map the evolution of its thematic and intellectual structures and analyse the factors driving IMR's academic influence and impactFindingsIMR's academic contributions, influence and impact have grown progressively. The thematic structure of the journal has evolved into six clusters. Simultaneously, its research fronts have submerged to six bibliographic clusters, noted as marketing channels, cross-cultural impact on emerging markets, export performance, country of origin (COO), online consumers and global business environment. Among these, the first four are still evolving, suggesting scope for future submissions.Research limitations/implicationsThe limitation of this endeavour largely arises from its selection of bibliographic data being confined to Scopus.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first objective assessment of the journal, useful to its authors, readers, reviewers and editorial board.

Stakeholder views on sustainability in an urban destination context: an inclusive path to destination competitiveness

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gaurav Panse ◽  
Alan Fyall ◽  
Sergio Alvarez
Keyword(s):  
Urban Tourism ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Tourism Destination ◽  
Urban Settings ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Cultural Sustainability ◽  
Mass Tourism ◽  
Destination Competitiveness ◽  
Development Goals

Purpose Mass tourism in urban settings has proven to be economically significant in many parts of the world. To date, however, the academic debate on sustainable tourism has focused primarily on the ecological and socio-cultural sustainability of tourism in rural and coastal, rather than urban, settings. This paper aims to review the emerging debate on sustainable urban tourism, its complexities and challenges, and questions how urban destinations that are striving to become sustainable cities, can leverage benefit from the implementation of sustainable policies and practices to achieve tourism ‘destination’ competitiveness. Design/methodology/approach The paper uses a qualitative, exploratory research approach using in-depth interviews to seek responses from key stakeholders on their views and experiences of sustainability in the context of an urban destination. Thematic analysis is used to analyze and present the findings. Findings This study concludes that destinations need to be viewed in their broader regional context. Rather than be viewed solely as destinations that are ‘kind to the environment,’ sustainable urban destinations need to demonstrate a deeper commitment to all stakeholder groups, and especially local residents, to provide a fair and desirable ecosystem for achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Originality/value This paper reflects on the potential relationship between ‘urban sustainability’ and the ‘destination competitiveness’ of an urban tourism destination. This then will provide the platform for sustainability to truly contribute to future destination competitiveness.

A conceptual framework for managing post-disaster reconstruction projects in emerging economies: the case of Angola

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nyamagere Gladys Sospeter ◽  
Pantaleo D. Rwelamila ◽  
Joaquim J. Gimbi
Keyword(s):  
Project Management ◽  
Conceptual Framework ◽  
Business Environment ◽  
Emerging Countries ◽  
Provincial Government ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Essential Components ◽  
Post Disaster

PurposeThis study develops a conceptual framework appropriate for managing Post-Disaster Reconstruction Projects (PDRPs) so as to avoid cost and time overruns in Angola.Design/methodology/approachAn explanatory sequential mixed research approach was used. Data was collected from project participants within the ministry of planning, the provincial government office of planning and the local government in Angola. A questionnaire with closed questions was completed by 130 survey respondents. Semi-structured focus group interviews were conducted with seven participants selected through purposive sampling. Descriptive statistics, t-test and content analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data, respectively.FindingsThe study indicates that there is presently no formal project management process. Neither have government project management standards been developed and broadcast. This results in ad hoc processes being mostly used for managing PDRPs. The study further presents disaster preparation programme, community engagement, resources and stakeholder's engagement, post-disaster procurement policies, financial guides, post-disaster recovery legislation, context-specific (social economic, demographic, political and cultural variables), programme preparation as essential components to be considered for developing an appropriate framework for managing PDRPs.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited by its geographical settings which focussed the results on one province in Angola. However, the findings can be useful for other countries wishing to gain insights on the framework with “overlooked components” for managing DPRPs in emerging countries with similar disaster environment, government policies and same business environment.Practical implicationsThe framework for managing PDRPs may positively impact project realization, hence minimization of time and cost overruns. The findings are vital for managers, local practitioners and policy/decision-makers in emerging countries of essential components and lessons useful for managing PDRPs and making decisions when they intend to participate in such projects. An understanding of which approaches are critical and essential components of the framework serves as a basis for improving project delivery. Future research studies should describe its practical application.Originality/valueThe study provides insights by identifying an ordered grouped set of project management models/approaches mostly applicable for managing PDRPs in Angola, better understanding of appropriate components/variables to be considered and develops a conceptual framework for managing PDRPs in emerging countries, post-war context.

Should knowledge management in organizations be rebranded?

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maayan Nakash ◽  
Dan Bouhnik
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Management ◽  
Organizational Context ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Qualitative Research Methodology ◽  
Knowledge Intensive ◽  
Strategic Perspective ◽  
First Time

Purpose This study aims to examine the relevance of the term “knowledge management” (KM) in the organizational context, and deliberates whether there is a need for rebranding of this field. It also enriches the understanding regarding the appropriateness of the term “KM,” which was chosen to represent the discipline. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a qualitative research methodology, and a case study approach was followed by conducting 19 semi-structured in-depth interviews with international KM experts working in a global consulting firm. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method based on the grounded theory approach. Findings The findings provide empirical evidence that attempts are being made to move away from the label “KM” in certain knowledge-intensive organizations. This study sheds light on the challenges associated with this term, which leads some to believe that the name of the discipline needs to change. Originality/value The present pioneering research contributes to empirical knowledge through investigation of an unexplored scientific field. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, for the first time, its uniqueness can be established by the fact that the opinions of KM professionals are being heard regarding the “KM” label, as well as the need for a rebranding of this discipline in the organizational context. From a practical and strategic perspective, this study suggests that the research community and practitioners pay attention to attempts to shift away from the existing title identified in organizational practice.

Triggers and motivators of privacy protection behavior on Facebook

2019 ◽  
Vol 33 (1) ◽  
pp. 57-72 ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda Alkire ◽  
Johannes Pohlmann ◽  
Willy Barnett
Keyword(s):  
Social Media ◽  
Privacy Protection ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Social Recognition ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
User Privacy ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Area Of Interest ◽  
The Impact

Purpose Internet user privacy risks have been a topical subject with respect to consumers, corporations and governments. In line with the recent privacy scandals linked to social media, the aim of this study is to explore users’ privacy protection behaviors (PPB) on Facebook through the actions they take to protect their privacy, their underlying motives and the values behind these protective actions. Moreover, this study aims to address an unintended consequence of Facebook usage. Despite Facebook’s positive and uplifting goal of connecting people, consumers are forced to resort to specific behaviors to protect their privacy and well-being. Design/methodology/approach This study adopts an exploratory research approach by using a well-established qualitative technique: structured laddering interviews. In total, 20 in-depth personal interviews were conducted with the Millennials. Findings Results show that the process of privacy protection is initiated by experiences, uncertainty and literacy, rather than threats, which leads to concerns that trigger PPBs. The most common PPBs include: “Reflection,” “Avoidance,” “Intervention,” “Restriction,” “Control,” and “Restraint.” The underlying motives for the adoption of these strategies include: “Success,” “Security,” “Social Recognition,” “A World of Peace,” “Exclusivity of Self,” “Being in Control,” “Meaning” and “True Friendship”. Originality/value The present research adopts a transdisciplinary framework to help fill the gap regarding the interplay of PPBs on Facebook, the triggers of those behaviors and their underlying motives. It contributes to the service literature and practice as it provides insights into a growing area of interest, whereas more social media channels are being created and more services are using social media strategies to engage and interact with their customers. Finally, it addresses the growing need to consider the impact of technological services, including internet and social media, on consumers’ and societies’ well-being.

Strategic orientations and performance of young ventures

2019 ◽  
Vol 58 (4) ◽  
pp. 666-686 ◽  
Author(s):  
Krishna Chandra Balodi
Keyword(s):  
Dynamic Capabilities ◽  
Business Environment ◽  
Strategic Orientation ◽  
Hierarchical Regression ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Technological Turbulence ◽  
Strategic Orientations ◽  
And Performance ◽  
The Uk

Purpose Considering that entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and market orientation (MO) are antecedents of firm performance, and that technological turbulence (TT) and competitive intensity (CI) are present in different degrees in the business environment, the purpose of this paper is to address the following question in the context of young ventures: What is the contingent effect of TT and CI on MO–performance and EO–performance relationships? Design/methodology/approach This paper follows a deductive research approach. First, the literature on strategic orientation, opportunities, and dynamic capabilities (DCs) view are reviewed to formulate hypotheses. Then moderated hierarchical regression analysis is used on data collected from entrepreneurs/top managers of a multi-country (India and the UK) sample of young ventures. Findings The results of this study provide empirical evidence to the argument that both EO and MO, when looked from the universal approach, positively affect young ventures’ performance. The results show that young venture should consider environmental contingencies while choosing a strategic orientation. For resource-starved young ventures, EO is beneficial when the environment is intensely competitive, and MO is advantageous when the environment is technologically turbulent. Originality/value This study relies on the literature on opportunities and DCs view to arrive at hypotheses specific to young ventures. The paper empirically tests the assertions, finds support for the majority of them and reports unbiased estimates of the coefficients. It also clarifies the contrary observation made by some researchers in their study of orientation–performance relationship.

Collaborative practices with suppliers in Indian manufacturing multinationals

2017 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 206-231 ◽  
Author(s):  
Manoj Hudnurkar ◽  
Urvashi Rathod
Keyword(s):  
Balanced Scorecard ◽  
Quantitative Methods ◽  
Business Environment ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Manufacturing Companies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Collaborative Practices ◽  
Qualitative And Quantitative Methods ◽  
Customer Perspective

Purpose The aim of this research was to study collaborative practices with suppliers in multinational manufacturing companies operating in India and to develop a framework for collaboration with suppliers. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a four-step mixed-methods approach that included qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative technique was used to explore the factors and develop a balanced scorecard-based (BSC – balanced scorecard) framework using them. Quantitative technique was used to validate the framework statistically and also by using fuzzy analytical hierarchy process using perception-based ranks given by practitioners. Findings The exploratory research resulted in 26 antecedents for collaboration with suppliers in supply chains. Out of these 26, only 19 were considered based on importance given by practitioners. Further, the identified antecedents were classified and mapped based on the perspectives of the BSC. The extended BSC adds business environment and partnership perspectives to existing BSC framework. Some of the important factors identified under these perspectives were transparency of transactions, long-term commitment and trust. The customer perspective was given the utmost importance by the practitioners. Research limitations/implications There are certain issues that may limit the completeness of the work in a global context. The number of organizations (21) and respondents (45) may also be insufficient to convey the complete knowledge embedded in the practice of the field. Originality/value The study provides practical insights about the factors affecting collaboration with suppliers. A BSC-based framework for collaboration with suppliers was also developed along with the associated importance of each perspective and factors under each perspective, which can prove to be of great value to academics and practitioners involved in relationship with suppliers in supply chain.

Administrative reforms and performance of local public policies

2014 ◽  
Vol 27 (6) ◽  
pp. 462-474 ◽  
Author(s):  
Helena Santos Curto ◽  
Álvaro Dias
Keyword(s):  
Civil Society ◽  
Local Governments ◽  
Local Development ◽  
Public Policies ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Administrative Reforms ◽  
State And Local

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to clarify the relationship between administrative reform in Portugal and the impacts on the dependence of local governments in the face of budgetary resources of state and local municipal revenue collection, which is understood as a form, among others, participation civil society in local public policies. Design/methodology/approach – The study opts for an exploratory analysis using the grounded theory approach, including the use of data relating to local government structures and partnerships with the private sector, based on the main lines of the public administration reform. The data were supplemented by documentary analysis, including legislative documents and papers in specialized area of administrative decentralization and civil society participation in local public policies. Findings – The paper provides empirical insights about how the increased participation of civil society in local public policies is associated with less reliance on state budgets and a greater number of local managerial structures. Research limitations/implications – Due to the chosen research approach, the results cannot be generalized. A comparative study between several countries could bring several interesting insights. Social implications – The paper includes implications for economic and social development of new public policies in the context of administrative reforms. Originality/value – This paper makes several theoretical and empirical contributions on this research field specially about local public manager's decisions for financial resources transfers within the active policy of sustainable local development.

scholarly journals A review of knowledge management about theoretical conception and designing approaches

2018 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 42-51 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tingwei Gao ◽  
Yueting Chai ◽  
Yi Liu
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Management ◽  
Theoretical Basis ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Performance Measure ◽  
Research Trend ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Comprehensive Review ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Theoretical Conception ◽  
And Performance

Purpose The main purpose of this paper is to conduct an in-depth theoretical review and analysis for the fields of knowledge management (KM) and investigate the future research trend about KM. Design/methodology/approach At first, few theoretical basis about KM which include definitions and stages about KM have been summarized and analyzed. Then a comprehensive review about the major approaches for designing the KM system from different perspectives including knowledge representation and organization, knowledge sharing and performance measure for KM has been conducted. Findings The contributions of this paper will be useful for both academics and practitioners for the study of KM. Originality/value For this research, the focus is on conducting an in-depth theoretical review and analysis of KM.

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