The synergy effect of the transactive memory and knowledge management system on team performance : a socio-technical perspective

Abstract

Knowledge management is becoming a critical business discipline as firms seek to enhance competitiveness in real time, creating value by utilizing knowledge. Even though there are a number of studies that examined the relationship between knowledge processes and performance, there are very few studies that focus on team level. Recently, regular teams use both online and offline channels, and virtual work is as common as face-to-face work. A team can be the information processor for performing tasks and it thus requires knowledge related to these tasks. To explore team knowledge management, this dissertation incorporates the concepts of the transactive memory system (TMS) and IT support for KM (KMS) based on the socio-technical paradigm. Even though an IT system can support knowledge processes and provide a virtual workplace, social factors such as trust, reward, and transactive memory are crucial for successful KM in companies. To be clear, IT systems can help draw on a variety of specialized skills and knowledge. Furthermore, transactive memory supports the corresponding IT system in enhancing team performance. Teams need to assemble the breadth of expertise needed to solve complicated business problems. IT is a profound catalyst for the creation of these agile teams. IT support does indeed matter. A primary objective of this thesis is to provide a better understanding of how teams facilitates knowledge sharing and application leading to team performance. In particular, this dissertation attempts to decipher the synergy effect of IT support on transactive memory. The empirical validation analysis employs 89 company teams. The analysis results reveal that IT is more likely to foster collaborative knowledge processes among team members. It is also confirmed that teams can more productively cooperate by sharing and applying knowledge. These results indicate that the greater the proportion of expertise a team connected to IT, the more likely to productive ...