Evaluating the Readiness of Iranian Research Centers in Knowledge Management

Abstract

Problem statement: Knowledge and its management are considered as a foundation for creating competitive advantages in organizations. Most of large companies have allocated plenty of resources to Knowledge Management (KM) because they believe Knowledge and its management is a foundation for creating competitive advantages in organizations. However, implementing knowledge management projects in an organization requires essential organizational changes. The main purpose of this study was to explore KM success factors of Iranian research center to make a basis for evaluating the readiness of KM in them. Approach: In this study, success factors of knowledge management were extracted from literature review on papers represented between 1997 and 2009. Then the factors were categorized and effective and critical success factors in each group were determined. The results were validated and analyzed by a questionnaire through binomial test and approved by an expert panel. Results: The study revealed that KM success factors of Iranian research centers are: Knowledge strategy, management support, motivational encouragements to share knowledge, suitable technical infrastructure. It is obvious that continuous attention of management to these factors is vital for the success of knowledge management in organizations. Conclusion: Based on results, to improve current situation of KM in Iranian research center, KM and its benefits should be represented to managers to attract their support in organization. Then KM should be employed in strategic program of organization. Besides, implementing the projects of KM should be accompanied with reward and motivational systems to facilitate knowledge sharing and create proper organizational culture.