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Integrating knowledge management with intellectual capital to drive strategy: a focus on Italian SMEs

Daniele Giampaoli (University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy)
Francesca Sgrò (University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy)
Massimo Ciambotti (University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy)
Nick Bontis (DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada)

VINE Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems

ISSN: 2059-5891

Article publication date: 7 December 2021

Issue publication date: 2 January 2024

428

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to provide empirical evidence on the linkage between knowledge management (KM), intellectual capital (IC), planning effectiveness (PE) and innovation performance in Italian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data from 172 Italian SMEs was collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using structural equation modeling (partial least square).

Findings

Results show that KM practices have a positive direct impact on each IC component which influences PE. Finally, structural capital and PE have a positive direct impact a firm’s ability to innovate.

Research limitations/implications

For researchers, this paper fills an important gap in the academic literature by conceptualizing and empirically testing the link between IC and PE. The main practical implication of this study is that developing intangible resources is of particular importance for strategic decision-making in SMEs. The focus on Italian SMEs limits the generalizability of the results.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence on how KM and IC interact and mutually drive PE. Second, results shed light on the importance of IC to enhance a firm’s ability to reach its goals. Finally, the focus on SMEs enriches the extant literature in the field confirming the vital role of KM and IC in managerial decision-making.

Keywords

Citation

Giampaoli, D., Sgrò, F., Ciambotti, M. and Bontis, N. (2024), "Integrating knowledge management with intellectual capital to drive strategy: a focus on Italian SMEs", VINE Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems, Vol. 54 No. 1, pp. 22-42. https://doi.org/10.1108/VJIKMS-04-2021-0059

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited

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