Research on knowledge transfer in organizations: a morphology

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present and describe a morphology of the research literature on knowledge transfer in organizations. Design/methodology/approach This morphology, which is a comprehensive framework characterizing the knowledge transfer literature in terms of dimensions and options, was developed by an extensive scanning of the pertinent literature. Findings Eight dimensions were found suitable to characterize the knowledge transfer research literature. Corresponding to each dimension, two to six options were found. Research limitations/implications The morphology demonstrates the extensiveness and variety of knowledge transfer research. To academics, the morphology can serve as a map of the knowledge transfer territory. Using the morphology, researchers can easily assess how an existing study fits in with the entire body of knowledge transfer research. Secondly, they can discern areas that have received less attention in comparison to others and thus identify gaps they may wish to address in a new study. KM practitioners can use the morphology to assess their knowledge transfer strategies in terms of the dimensions it currently has/lacks, and take appropriate decisions. Originality/value To the best of the authors' knowledge, a morphological approach has not been attempted so far to characterize KM research literature. The approach used can be applied to other areas of management as well, for similar purposes.