The Impact of Organizational Culture and Structure on Knowledge Sharing

Posted: 25 Nov 2012

See all articles by Zahidul Md. Islam

Zahidul Md. Islam

Universiti Brunei Darussalam

Ikramul Hasan

Independent University, Bangladesh ; University of Brunei Darussalam

Ali Yusob Md Zain

Universiti Brunei Darussalam

Date Written: November 17, 2012

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine how organizational culture, structure influence knowledge sharing in Malaysian MNCs. We pointed out that knowledge is shared through the organizational culture and structural systems which involve some key factors, i.e., support and collaboration, learning and development, leadership and commitment, formalization and centralization. As support and collaboration encourage learning and development within knowledge worker where leadership roles can be exercised with its full potential in the circumference of the organizational culture. On the other hand structure can be an essential factor that constrains knowledge sharing practice in the organization. The approach of this research is quantitative in nature. The research findings indicate that out of the five independent variables, learning and development, leadership commitment and formalization are positively related to knowledge sharing. MNC’s operating in Malaysia may use these findings to improve the practice of knowledge sharing among their employees. The findings of this research are limited to MNC’s only. Furthermore, most respondents are from electrical and electronics companies. The conclusions of this study are based on the interpretation of survey results administered to 90 managerial staff in Multinational Corporation in Penang, Malaysia. Further studies are required to draw a more generalized conclusion. The paper contributes to the body of knowledge relating to knowledge sharing in high-tech semiconductor industry.

Keywords: knowledge sharing, organizational culture, organizational structure

Suggested Citation

Islam, Zahidul Md. and Hasan, Ikramul and Md Zain, Ali Yusob, The Impact of Organizational Culture and Structure on Knowledge Sharing (November 17, 2012). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2180427

Zahidul Md. Islam

Universiti Brunei Darussalam ( email )

Jalan Tungku Link
Gadong
Bandar Seri Begawan, BE1410
Brunei

Ikramul Hasan (Contact Author)

Independent University, Bangladesh ( email )

Plot 16 Block B, Aftabuddin Ahmed Road Bashundhara
Dhaka, 1229
Bangladesh

University of Brunei Darussalam ( email )

Jalan Tungku Link
Gadong
Bandar Seri Begawan, BE1410
Brunei

Ali Yusob Md Zain

Universiti Brunei Darussalam ( email )

Jalan Tungku Link
Gadong
Bandar Seri Begawan, BE1410
Brunei

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