The Effect of Task Types, Km Processes and Kms Capabilities on Km Performance

In the prior studies, researchers believe that the fit between KM processes and task characteristics, or the fit between KM processes and KMS capabilities may improve KM performance. Yet little is known about how the fit among task characteristic, KM processes, and KMS capabilities impacts KM performance. This study proposes an extended model by integrating above two different research streams and the view of “fit as holistic configurations” to explore how to use KM processes and KMS capabilities appropriately according to the tasks subunits perform. In this regard, four theoretical ideal profiles of KM processes and KMS capabilities for organizational subunits are developed based on their task characteristics. Our empirical study was conducted at a knowledge intensive and engineering-oriented company in Taiwan. Results reveal that fit seems significantly affect knowledge satisfaction, knowledge quality and creativity for subunits performing focused, process-oriented and broad, process-oriented tasks. It is also positively related to knowledge satisfaction, knowledge quality for subunits performing focused, content-oriented tasks. Keyword: Knowledge Management Processes (KM processes), Knowledge Management Systems Capabilities (KMS Capabilities), Fit, Knowledge Management Performance, Task Characteristics