| Knowledge sharing is the ability to share ideas, perspectives, information, or knowledge among people within or outside an organization. By tapping into the vast reservoir of creative intellect and expertise, anyone in the organization, enabled by a collaborative technology, can share their knowledge. People within or outside of an organization can similarly search for knowledge held by others, creating the potential for continual performance improvements. In an era that is becoming predominantly digital, the ability to share knowledge is becoming easier, cheaper and more prevalent through the use of collaborative technologies.; This research explored factors potentially contributing to the diffusion and effective use of a collaborative technology, known as BSCW (Basic Support for Shared Work), within a scientific contract research organization. The impact of using BSCW to facilitate knowledge sharing and specific performance improvement factors was also examined. A case study employed a qualitative research approach (in-depth interviews) followed by a quantitative approach (a web-based Likert-scale survey) to assess which factors exerted an influence on BSCW use and knowledge sharing as well as performance improvements resulting from the use of this collaborative technology.; Results show that while initial use represented a forced adoption situation, the factor “relative advantage” exerted the greatest influence on the continued and effective use of the technology. Results from the qualitative study suggest that leadership exerted a great influence on adoption as well as a reward/compensation system to motivate use of the technology and sharing knowledge. Based on user perceptions, the greatest performance improvement benefits included significant time savings in work processes, improved quality and improved decision making, as well as the potential for improved client satisfaction from using this collaborative technology to facilitate knowledge sharing. The quantitative study supported these findings. The findings from this study may help organizations more effectively implement new innovations for potential performance improvements. |
