Knowledge management processes, knowledge worker satisfaction, and organizational performance: Symmetric and asymmetrical analysis

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing on the knowledge-based view, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the interrelationship between Knowledge Management (KM) processes, Knowledge Worker Satisfaction (KWS) and Organizational Performance (OP). Additionally, the study further seeks to identify the combinations of KM processes and KWS dimensions that can lead to enhanced OP.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 248 academics and administration employees of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The relationships were tested using SmartPLS 3.2.7. The study also employed fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) for examining configurational paths.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that KM processes significantly affect KWS and KWS enhances OP in HEIs. Based on fsQCA, the results revealed multiple configurational paths to improved OP.

Originality/value

There is significant lack of research that ascertains the inter-relationship between KM processes, KWS, and OP. This is one of the initial studies that examines the relationship of KM processes, KWS, and OP in HEI’s. From a methodological perspective, the study contributes by combining symmetric and asymmetric statistical tools in KM literature. fsQCA helps to understand the interactions that might not be immediately obvious through traditional symmetric methods.

Citation

Sahibzada, U.F., Cai, J., Latif, K.F. and Sahibzada, H.F. (2020), "Knowledge management processes, knowledge worker satisfaction, and organizational performance: Symmetric and asymmetrical analysis", Aslib Journal of Information Management, Vol. 72 No. 1, pp. 112-129. https://doi.org/10.1108/AJIM-10-2019-0276