An overall view of knowledge management challenges for global business

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to offer an overall view of knowledge management challenges for global business via discussing the challenges and proposing theoretical and managerial implications. Design/methodology/approach - Based on a comprehensive literature review, the paper identifies six main knowledge management challenges faced by global business today. Then, the challenges are discussed in relation to managerial practice. Findings - The paper argues that developing a working definition of knowledge, dealing with tacit knowledge and utilization of information technology, adaptation to cultural complexity, attention to human resources, developing new organizational structures, and coping with increased competition are the main knowledge management challenges faced by global business today. Practical implications - Suggested implications include a more significant managerial emphasis on considering and dealing with the knowledge management challenges in a holistic manner, taking into account all internal and external factors influencing the knowledge-management process. Originality/value - The paper evaluates the critical findings of the literature within the historical progress of knowledge management, clarifies the main knowledge management challenges faced by global business organizations today, and offers a basic framework for further studies.