Team Knowledge Sharing and Social Networks: Proposing a Multi-Phase Approach

Knowledge sharing across teams, departments, and other boundaries remains a significant organizational challenge. This paper uses social network theory to propose a model of effective knowledge sharing and integration. Additionally, the model addresses and integrates consideration of four related questions: why are all teams not equally effective at sharing and integrating knowledge? Why are some knowledge sharing endeavors unsuccessful even if team members have ties across team boundaries to other parts of the organization? What is the knowledge giver’s point of view in a knowledge sharing exchange? Finally, what is the impact of team context on knowledge sharing and integration?