Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine knowledge management practices and critical success factors (CSFs) for their introduction in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS) sector. Methodology: The paper is based on the results of an exploratory qualitative survey involving owners and managers of small and medium-sized companies operating in the KIBS sector. In the survey, eight in-depth interviews were carried out with representatives of SMEs offering KIBS located in the Pomeranian region in Poland. Findings: The results of this study clearly indicate that among the most important CSFs for knowledge management (KM) in the companies analysed are factors connected with human resources and appropriate attitudes towards KM. The companies examined often indicated factors associated with employees and management. This illustrates an awareness on the part of KIBS companies of the significance of human resources: as they offer services based on knowledge, they know that if their employees do not want to implement practices connected with knowledge and its management, their implementation will not be possible. Research limitations: The research results are limited to KIBS companies from the Pomeranian region in Poland. They cannot illustrate a typical picture for companies in other countries. Furthermore, the study presented is an exploratory one and consequently the topic explored requires further examination. Practical implications: This study might offer good guidelines for SMEs owners and managers wishing to introduce KM practices. It indicates the factors that support and hinder the success of KM introduction in this type of company. SMEs that have already introduced KM might also benefit by revising their approach to the concept and paying more attention to the CSFs identified in the study. Originality/value: Although the field of knowledge management in large companies has been examined thoroughly in the literature, there is still not much research on the CSFs for KM introduction in smaller companies. This study identifies and examines critical success factors for knowledge management in such companies (SMEs in the KIBS sector), which by definition need to manage knowledge in an efficient and effective way. The paper also suggests further research possibilities in this area.

Author (1)