Knowledge management: a factor analysis of sector effects

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the effects of knowledge management (KM) on three organizational sectors. Design/methodology/approach – This paper undertakes a dual theory building/testing approach. Through the development of a multi‐factor KM model, known as the MeCTIP model, and subsequent survey instrument, empirical analysis is conducted on a number of UK organizations from engineering, technology and financial services sectors. Findings – The results indicate that for KM implementation common issues exist for people issues across organizational sectors, while cultural and technological differences are evident. Research limitations/implications – As the survey population consists of UK companies only, the findings presented may not be representative of all companies, within the three identified sectors, on a global scale. Secondly, only three industrial sectors are included in the study, therefore the results cannot be applied to all organization types. Originality/value – While the area of KM is eclectic in nature and covers the systematic management of knowledge, of all kinds, within all levels and types of organizations there is a paucity of empirical studies focusing on key variables within the field. Such studies are needed to increase understanding and to examine the applicability of KM across a range of organizational contexts.