Knowledge Management: The Distinctive Roles of Knowledge Assets in Facilitating Knowledge Creation

Abstract

A comprehensive and feasible model that delineates the interrelationships between knowledge assets and knowledge creation processes has not been explored in the literature. This study aims to fill this void. Unlike previous research, this study investigates the interrelations among four categories of knowledge assets and four knowledge creation processes — socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization (SECI) [9]. In our framework, we argue that different types of knowledge assets may have differing influences on knowledge creation. In order to test the feasibility of this framework, we conducted an empirical research exercise. This study employed a survey instrument to collect data from a wide variety of organizations in manufacturing, trade, transportation and service industries, computer industries, finance, and academic institutions. A total of 204 usable responses were analysed. We identified four interrelationships from this study. (1) Compared to other knowledge assets, conceptual knowledge assets have a greater effect on externalization of knowledge creation process; (2) compared to other knowledge assets, routine knowledge assets have a greater effect on socialization of knowledge creation process; (3) compared to other knowledge assets, experiential knowledge assets do not have a greater effect on internalization of the knowledge creation process; and (4) compared to other knowledge assets, systemic knowledge assets do not have a greater effect on the combination of knowledge creation process. The implications of the study are discussed, and further research directions are proposed.