Knowledge Sharing among Employees in the Manufacturing SMEs

Large companies dominate in knowledge sharing initiatives; however, evidence suggests that more small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) are deploying knowledge strategies to attempt to leapfrog the competition. However, studies on SMEs and knowledge sharing in Malaysia remain scanty. This paper, therefore, examines six factors that could influence SMEs’ employees’ attitude towards knowledge sharing. The six independent variables are: trust among employees, formalization, knowledge technology, motivation, reward system, and empowering leadership. The dependent variable is attitude towards knowledge sharing, while the outcome variable is intention to share knowledge. The authors developed the research framework based on relevant literature and models. The analysis was based on 250 valid responses. The seven arguments emerged significant. Based on the findings, SMEs could benefit from identifying critical factors to address knowledge sharing among employees. The findings will also be useful as a frame of reference for future studies on SMEs and knowledge sharing. Finally, this paper concludes with a discussion on the implications of the study, and provides recommendations for enhancing knowledge sharing activities in SMEs. DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-3886-0.ch071