Modes-based-analysis of knowledge transfer in the organizations

Abstract

There are series of modes between actors as they transfer knowledge with each other. Different modes will totally lead to quite different efficiency and results, which will further influence on organizational performances and innovations. This paper generalizes nine kinds of modes of knowledge transfer between actors, and then classifies the organization based on the modes, at last simulates the different modes of knowledge transfer on small world networks according to the setting rules. Through the simulation experiment we compute the average knowledge store and knowledge variance, the result shows that different modes of knowledge transfer will affect efficiency of knowledge transfer. When there are entirely two-way solid line mode in the organizations, knowledge transfer will be the fastest. Organizations of greater density are efficient, in which different modes have less influence to knowledge transfer. And while there are more one-way lines, the variance will be bigger. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.