Social networks, social capital and knowledge productivity

Abstract

This paper presents a theoretical framework on the relationship between social networks, social capital and knowledge productivity within organizations. In our knowledge economy, the competitive advantage of organisations relies on the capability to adapt to the changing environment by the continuous generation and application of new knowledge (Harrison & Kessels, 2004 p. 3). This specific capability is described as knowledge productivity. In this paper and the related PhD study the construct of knowledge is described as a social process of interaction between organizational members. If we consider organizational knowledge as a ‘social process of knowing’ (Huemer, Von Krog & Roos, 1998. p. 140), social networks and social capital plus supportive theories offer a conceptual framework for studying and understanding the process of knowledge productivity. This perspective provides argumentation that the composition and relation between social networks and social capital affects the organizational ability to become knowledge productive. This paper will theoretically conceptualise that knowledge productivity can be described as a continuous learning process. Henceforth, this paper elaborates on the notion that these learning processes can only take place in a social environment in which social networks play a facilitating role. This paper explores the dynamics of these powerful learning processes within social networks that take place in a rich landscape of social capital.