Anbar, D R; Chang, T; Deng, X and Mahmoud, M R I (2024) Implementing effective knowledge management in international construction projects by eliminating knowledge hiding. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, 150(8): 04024082, ISSN 0733-9364
Abstract
Effective knowledge management (KM) and knowledge sharing (KS) are critical for the success of international construction projects (ICPs), but they are often hindered by knowledge-hiding (KH) behavior. This study examines the complex and multifaceted factors that affect KH in ICPs, informed by role identity theory (RIT) and social exchange theory (SET). In particular, we investigate how ethnic minorities (EMs), contingent workers (CWs), and interpersonal justice (IJ) influence KH in these projects. Using structural equation modeling (SEM) and artificial neural networks (ANNs), we reveal the significant effects of EMs and CWs on KH and the partial mediation of IJ between EMs and KH. We also find that control variables such as gender and age have significant impacts on KH. The findings underscore the pivotal role of inclusive practices in mitigating KH and enhancing KM in ICPs. This research provides actionable insights for creating a transparent and inclusive knowledge-sharing culture in multicultural project teams, which contributes to improved project outcomes and organizational success. This study also paves the way for future research on power asymmetries, contextual factors, and the influence of organizational cultures, leadership styles, and team dynamics on KM in ICPs.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | contingent workers; international construction projects; interpersonal justice; knowledge ecosystem; knowledge hiding; knowledge management |
| Index terms: | social exchange theory, project team, team dynamics, identity, project outcome, organizational culture, knowledge management, international construction project, ethnic minority, structural equation modelling, artificial neural network, knowledge sharing, leadership style, justice, mediation |
| Subjects: | project delivery, knowledge management, legal systems, modelling and simulation, dispute resolution, project completion, strategic management, statistical analysis, leadership, sociology, demography, professional development, social theory, management |
| Topics: | Research Practice, Project Management, Information Management, Organizational Design, Legal Issues, Urban Studies, International Construction |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here