A Framework for Knowledge Sharing, Firm Innovation Capability and Competitive Advantage in the U.A.E

Abstract

This research paper objective is to propose a knowledge sharing framework that can be used in organizations in the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E). It links knowledge sharing enablers, processes and outcomes. It explains the influence of individual factors (Enjoyment in helping others and knowledge self-efficacy), organization factors (Top management support and organizational rewards) and technology factors (Information and communication technology use) on knowledge sharing processes (knowledge donating and collecting). Furthermore, it examines the influence of knowledge sharing processes (knowledge donating and collecting) in firm innovation capability and firm competitive advantage, and finally the influence of firm innovation capability and firm competitive advantage. Based on questionnaires collected from a sample of around 1500 employees in 35 companies all over the U.A.E, this study applies Structured Equation modeling (SEM) to analyze and test the research framework. The expected findings of this research paper are to confirm the individual, organizational and technology factors that influence knowledge sharing, as well as if it influences firm innovation capability and firm competitive advantage in the context of the U.A.E. This study expected findings are interesting from both theoretical and practical perspectives. Theoretically, this study propose a framework for empirical studies that link several dimensions, which are knowledge sharing enablers, processes and outcomes such as firm innovation capability and competitive advantage. From a practical perspective, the relationship between knowledge sharing enablers and processes may provide a clue regarding how organizations in the U.A.E can promote knowledge-sharing culture to sustain their innovation performance and competitive advantage. The study will establish a number of implications for helping practitioners and managers establish a successful knowledge sharing strategy. This research is also expected to have a number of limitations and future study opportunities, which includes the generalization of the study findings to other regions in the world, as well as including more knowledge sharing enablers to the framework.