Identification and comparison of KM strategic approaches: Analysis of Spanish KIBS companies

Abstract

Knowledge Management (KM) is increasingly recognized as a strategic element of today's companies. However, a still debated issue is how companies can or should plan their KM activities. Some scholars argue that KM should be a deliberate activity, based on formal plans and clear allocation of resources. Other studies have shown that, at least in some businesses, KM activities tend to be informal and occasional, and lead to problem-driven solutions. Consequently, there is the need to investigate this issue in greater detail. Based on a survey-based investigation, this study contributes to the identification of the different possible KM approaches of companies, under the assumption that these adopt an approach that can be placed in between the previously cited two ideal extremes (that will be called "deliberate" and "emergent" KM approach respectively). The investigation is part of a broader analysis regarding KIBS (Knowledge-Intensive Business Services) companies, involving similar companies in some European Countries. These firms have been selected as the object of analysis because knowledge and KM are the core ingredients of their business. Specifically, this paper illustrates the preliminary results of the survey conducted on Spanish KIBS. Questionnaires were sent to a target sample of companies of various size and sector. The main goal was the identification and characterization of the approaches to KM adopted by companies, and the possible relationship between their KM strategy and other characteristics of the company (sector, size, etc.). By using some descriptive statistics, the paper illustrates the preliminary classifications and categorizations of the KM approach that companies adopt. These findings can be of interest for both researchers in KM (that can find inspiration for further investigation on the issue) and practitioners (by providing them better understanding of how KM activities can take place in organizations).