Examining Knowledge-sharing Behavior in a High-Tech Firm Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Malek-Ashtar University of Technology

Abstract

Employees' knowledge-sharing is a key to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in current dynamic economy, especially in high-tech firms. Effective knowledge-sharing among employees can considerably affect the time, cost and quality of research and development activities in such organizations. Therefore, this paper is aimed at examining how to form knowledge-sharing behavior in a high-tech firm based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). To do so, after reviewing the literature on knowledge-sharing determining factors, TPB is explained. Then, the conceptual model and research hypotheses are discussed. A descriptive-survey method is used and a questionnaire developed for gathering data. Also, partial least squares (PLS) method is used to test the research hypotheses. The results of analyzing data gathered from the statistical population show that attitude toward knowledge-sharing, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control have significant positive effects on knowledge-sharing intention. Additionally, the research findings indicate that knowledge-sharing intention and perceived behavioral control significantly influence knowledge-sharing behavior. Finally, some practical implications are offered for knowledge management practitioners to foster employees' knowledge-sharing, and some suggestions for future works to overcome current research shortcomings.

Keywords

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 15 September 2014
  • Accept Date: 15 June 2015

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