Knowledge management in a multinational context: aligning nature of knowledge and technology

Aim of this paper is to show the importance of understanding the nature of both the technology and knowledge when promoting knowledge sharing through knowledge management (KM) portals. This paper investigate knowledge sharing and the “fit” between the nature of knowledge to be shared and the nature of the technological tools that are used. Technology intended as technical instrument could result in an empty box, and knowledge management initiatives could not be effective and lead to a sustainable competitive advantage. By means of an in-depth case study of a major consulting firm, the study discusses and answer the research question. Results show that knowledge areas with high level of codifiability can be effectively shared by using low collaborativity and low multimodality tools. Knowledge areas with a high level of epistemic complexity can be effectively shared by using high collaborativity and high multimodality tools. Knowledge areas with a high level of task dependence can be effectively shared by using low collaborativity and intermediate multimodality tools.