The knowledge enablers of knowledge transfer: a study in the construction industries in Ghana

Abstract

Purpose

This research aims to investigate and identify knowledge transfer (KT) enablers within the developing country of Ghana. These enablers act as mechanisms to stimulate knowledge creation, knowledge protection and build effective knowledge-sharing (KS) behaviour in construction companies – consequently, they are crucial to business survival in a globally competitive market.

Design/methodology/approach

A perception questionnaire survey was used to elicit responses from construction practitioners using purposive and snowballing non-probability sampling techniques. Summary statistical analysis and a chi-square test was used to uncover relationships between the independent and dependent variables.

Findings

An empirical examination of data collected indicated that knowledge strategy, organizational culture, information technology and knowledge leadership as knowledge enablers have a significant positive relationship with KT. Future research is however required to measure transfer within an organization vis-à-vis measure perception of such.

Originality/value

The work presents a rare glimpse of the relationship between knowledge enablers and KT (particularly in a developing country context) and as such provides utility to policymakers and construction firms to enhance their knowledge capabilities.

Citation

Owusu-Manu, D.-G., John Edwards, D., Pärn, E.A., Antwi-Afari, M.F. and Aigbavboa, C. (2018), "The knowledge enablers of knowledge transfer: a study in the construction industries in Ghana", Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 194-210. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEDT-02-2017-0015