Knowledge Management in Small and Medium Enterprises: Literature Review and Research Agenda

Abstract

Knowledge management is essential for analysing organizational innovation. It impacts the ability to meet objectives and engage in decision-making, which can be improved using information and communication technologies (ICTs). However, its use has limitations in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) due to resource and knowledge barriers, which is why the scientific literature must be kept up to date to provide solutions. Thus, the objective of the study is to explore research trends in knowledge management in SMEs. For this purpose, a bibliometric analysis is carried out with the Scopus database, following the parameters of the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement for literature re-views. Among the main findings is the accelerated pace of publication in countries such as the United Kingdom, Italy, Taiwan, and Malaysia that addresses this theme from innovation, performance, learning and sustainability, with research referents as Kuan Yew Kong or Roberto Cerchione. Among the main conclusions, mention is made of the importance of future research addressing consolidated topics in the field, as well as others considered emerging and in current trends such as absorptive capacity, entrepreneurial orientation, and intellectual capital, as the main emerging issues.