Mechanisms of Intra-Organisational Knowledge Transfer: The Case of a Global Technology Firm

Abstract

This paper develops three mechanisms to facilitate knowledge transfer within a global technology firm. Documentation helps to codify knowledge and make it less ambiguous. Technology is used as an interactive media to spread the message codified whereas a face-to-face community develops social ties among different business units among the firm. After monitoring the impact of each mechanism we discuss the need for adaptation and the factors influencing this adaptation. The results give rise to the prevalent role of the manager of the business unit whose action affects both the properties of the unit and the relationships with other units.