Knowledge sharing in a remote working organisation

Abstract

Background: With the increase in remote working environments since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, organisations were periodically forced to adopt remote working strategies. Moving to a remote working environment has several advantages and challenges. A challenge faced by most organisations is the adoption of a strategy that would emulate a face-to-face working environment as closely as possible. One crucial aspect in trying to achieve this has been the sharing of knowledge remotely, as knowledge sharing is easier to conduct face-to-face than in a remote working environment.
Objectives: This study explored how knowledge is shared and retained in a remote working organisation. The study also identifies some of the benefits and barriers to knowledge sharing in remote working environments.
Method: This qualitative study collected empirical data from seven semi-structured interviews with individuals who were part of a remote team from a research organisation.
Results: The study found that knowledge can be shared remotely using a combination of processes and technological tools such as online platforms (e.g. Microsoft Teams and SharePoint). It was also found that mentoring and collaboration should be implemented as knowledge-retention strategies. The building of trust through the socialisation of team members should be encouraged to promote knowledge sharing. The findings of this study add value with a focus on sharing knowledge in a remote working organisation to ultimately enhance or optimise knowledge sharing for this environment.
Conclusion: Collaborative practices such as knowledge sharing can be significantly impacted by the nature of remote working. Strategic initiatives need to be thoughtfully implemented to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing, as the reliance on technology alone may not bring favourable results.
Contribution: This study adds findings and suggestions to a relatively new but important aspect of knowledge management and focuses on managing knowledge remotely where physical interaction is very limited.