Factors inducing knowledge creation: empirical evidence from Thai construction projects
Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management
ISSN: 0969-9988
Article publication date: 1 November 2006
Abstract
Purpose
This research is aimed at examining the relationships between knowledge factors and the knowledge creation process in construction projects, paying particular attention to on‐site work.
Design/methodology/approach
The design of this research is cross‐sectional and uses a blended methodological approach of both quantitative and qualitative methods. The research model includes the following variables; six knowledge factors: vision of leadership, trust, collaboration, incentives, information technology (IT) support, and individual competencies; and four knowledge creation processes: socialization, externalization, combination, and internalization. Survey data from 70 construction projects in Thai construction firms, obtained by means of a questionnaire developed by the researcher, were collated and analyzed. As a means of testing the model, regression analysis techniques were used to analyze the data.
Findings
Consistent with previous empirical evidence, three knowledge factors affected the knowledge creation process: incentives, IT, and individual competencies. It was noted that these factors overlay the knowledge creation process at all execution stages of on‐site construction.
Originality/value
This research is expected to contribute to a better understanding of important knowledge factors and knowledge management research in Thai construction that is still at an infancy stage. In order to build a knowledge creative culture, construction project executives need to support and maximize the value of human assets (individual competencies). Furthermore, facilitating IT‐supported knowledge management in construction projects needs to be considered and emphasized needs to be placed on productive work and gain a competitive advantage.
Keywords
Citation
Teerajetgul, W. and Charoenngam, C. (2006), "Factors inducing knowledge creation: empirical evidence from Thai construction projects", Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, Vol. 13 No. 6, pp. 584-599. https://doi.org/10.1108/09699980610712382
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited