Toward a conceptual framework of reflexivity and practices in knowledge management

Abstract

Purpose

In the present paper the research respects a specific steps regarding to the specificities of the study. The first step is compiling data into formal set which calls for the careful and methodic organizing of the original data. The second phase is disassembling the data in the base which calls the formal coding procedure. This phase supposes the use of a type of coding (axial coding). The authors combined three sources of information; nonparticipating observation of employee practices, techniques of semi-structural Biographical Interviews and explanations to collect data.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to report one-case study approach in a knowledge-based multinational to propose a framework that explores the role of reflexivity as determinant and the KM practices base of organizational changes and interpretations. The practice theory of Bourdieu and Giddens is mobilized to explain the individual behavior and the effect on the organizational structures. The paper assigns the role of team reflexivity as antecedent and emphasizes the individual and organizational practices to KM assessment.

Findings

The results showed the value of considering individual practices and team reflexivity on the learning stock of groups and knowledge sharing. Also, organizational learning, capability and social interactions are promising to build a practice-based framework of individual-organization duality of KM and for understanding changes in organizational structure and management modes.

Research limitations/implications

The results showed the value of considering individual practices and team reflexivity on the learning stock of groups and knowledge sharing. Also, organizational learning, capability and social interactions are promising to build a practice-based framework of individual-organization duality of KM and for understanding changes in organizational structure and management modes.

Practical implications

The organization's business strategy should identify and assess knowledge within the company's targets based on practice related concepts. The development of KM and HRM strategies must be embedded in business strategy which enables and support the organizational learning through practice community formation. Also, the direction should facilitate interpersonal knowledge sharing through certain forms of social interaction like establishing trust between new team's projects, team reflexivity and individual practices. Moreover, in the managerial issues, the study values the transformational leadership, participative management and commitment within the working group.

Originality/value

As any organizational phenomenon, KM can be addressed in different ways. The authors’ objective is to present an original and global approach leading to understanding different dimensions of this phenomenon. The proposed framework stipulates that knowledge is formed in practice through social interactions (Bourdieu, Giddens) and presents itself as a solution to the duality individual-organization. The originality of the paper is presumed in building a theory about KM effectiveness to develop its literature in terms of determinants and practices.

Citation

Ben Zammel, I. and Najar, T. (2021), "Toward a conceptual framework of reflexivity and practices in knowledge management", Management Decision, Vol. 59 No. 12, pp. 2809-2826. https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-04-2020-0428