A Framework For Tacit Knowledge Transfer In A Virtual Team Environment

Abstract

Tacit knowledge transfer is a contentious subject in knowledge management (KM). Virtual teams and the increased use of ICT to bridge the distance gap among participants further complicate the KM process. Change strategies for virtual tacit transfer will require substantial deviations from traditional managerial practices. To ensure success, leaders, trainers and managers will have to adapt the best practices from the field of distance education. Proposed changes in the framework include altering the top-down management strategy to focus on virtual team individuals, purposefully designing interaction and creating an atmosphere to foster autonomy. The purpose of this paper is to explore the gap in tacit transfer research concerning virtual team environments, and suggest a framework to reduce barriers and facilitate transfer. Also addressed are specific ownership issues associated with tacit knowledge transfer in virtual environments, and a framework is developed that adapts relevant distance education strategies to create a sustainable virtual environment for tacit transfer.