An Investigation of Knowledge Sharing Phenomenon among IT Engineers: An Interpretative Phenomenological Perspective

Abstract

In order to strengthen the IT industry in developing Arabic economies, knowledge sharing among developers and engineers is key. This study explores the factors that drive such individuals to share knowledge amongst themselves. Phenomenology, as a philosophy of knowledge and a qualitative research approach, was employed to construct a new understanding of the knowledge sharing phenomenon in organisations in Saudi Arabia. The study synthesised data from ten semi-structured interviews with IT engineers and developers into a consistent description of the key determinants that facilitate knowledge sharing intentions. The emerging themes were clustered into three conceptual categories: (1) individual domain (2) organisational domain, and (3) Information Technology domain.

The primary conclusion, derived from the point of view and experiences of the participating IT managers is that reputation, openness to experience, organisational culture, management support and technology capability are the main reasons for knowledge sharing. The end result of this study is to offer guidance to managers and policymakers for the development and rollout of sound knowledge management systems within the Kingdom.