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Knowledge sharing processes in Tunisian small ICT firms.

El Harbi, Sana; Anderson, Alistair R.; Amamou, Meriam

Authors

Sana El Harbi

Alistair R. Anderson

Meriam Amamou



Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine how knowledge and information is shared by small information and communication technology firms in Tunisia. Design/methodology/approach: The paper employs a comparative case study approach. This was intended to collect data that describe processes and also to elicit information about the reasons for these processes. The authors set the study in the context of a developing country. Findings: It was found that information and knowledge is key to the operational success of these companies. Knowledge, and its application, is crucial to their competitive advantage. The companies have developed very useful internal systems for sharing information. They also have efficient methods for tapping into existing external knowledge. However, evidence was also found of immature national information sharing systems. The authors attribute this to the level of development in Tunisia and to the understandable attitudes of the firm owners. Research limitations/implications: Whilst unable to generalise empirically beyond these cases, the authors can conceptually generalise that these processes are likely to be common in similar national contexts. The implication is then that developing countries such as Tunisia may need to invest more in creating knowledge hubs. Originality/value: The paper contributes by describing knowledge sharing in a less well-researched area. Conceptually, it offers an appreciation of how knowledge sharing works in less-developed regions.

Citation

EL HARBI, S., ANDERSON, A.R. and AMAMOU, M. 2011. Knowledge sharing processes in Tunisian small ICT firms. Library review [online], 60(1), pages 24-36. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1108/00242531111100559

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Feb 8, 2011
Online Publication Date Feb 8, 2011
Publication Date Feb 28, 2011
Deposit Date Aug 29, 2011
Publicly Available Date Aug 29, 2011
Journal Library review
Print ISSN 0024-2535
Publisher Emerald
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 60
Issue 1
Pages 24-36
DOI https://doi.org/10.1108/00242531111100559
Keywords Developing countries; Knowledge economy; Knowledge management; Knowledge sharing; Tunisia
Public URL http://hdl.handle.net/10059/667
Contract Date Aug 29, 2011

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