BUSINESSES IN LIGHT OF MODERN APPROACH: A STUDY TO EXPLORE KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT WITH TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS IN START-UPS & SME

Abstract

The dissertation focuses on the process of knowledge management in relation to the most prominent technological tools that can elevate performance of start-ups and SMEs. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of adaptation of technological tools in start-ups and SMEs on their knowledge management.

The literature review of this study focuses on highlighting the challenges and their technological solution by identifying potential tools. Moreover, the importance of coopetition and its implications are also highlighted in the literature review. The conceptual frame work is based on the literature reviewed and integrates identified tools with respect to knowledge management aspects to assess the impact of different tools on KM processes.

For this reason, qualitative data was gathered by means of seven semi-structured interviews which involved individuals from different industries at senior positions in either start-ups or SMEs. The data was then analysed and the findings of this dissertation revealed that various start-ups/SMEs belonging to different industries face different challenges and most of those challenges can be dealt with the help of technological tools. Coopetition among start-ups/SMEs is identified as a sound approach for increasing knowledge, market exposure, and adding value to the organisation. However, it is concluded that for start-ups/SMEs short-term coopetition is most beneficial.

Tools like groupware which encourage collaboration are beneficial for knowledge sharing purposes which also positively impact employee trust, performance, and contribute to maintaining supportive environment within organisation. Cloud computing was popular for knowledge retention purposes due to its features like availability and management of large data. Moreover, Internet of Things is not only identified to enhance knowledge acquisition processes but also its capability to integrate different tools will allow smooth business operations. Additionally, Social Web Technologies such as private Wikis and Rich Site Summary (RSS) were also popular for knowledge acquisition process. It is also apparent from the findings that most of the SMEs are at early stages of implementation of such tools whereas start-ups showed significant disconnection from these technological advancements.

All in all, it concluded that the implementation of KMS with TAM in knowledge-intensive firms will support them in better managing their organisational knowledge hence creating value for the organisation.