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Article
Publication date: 29 April 2021

Omar A. Tapasco-Alzate, Jaime Giraldo-García and Diógenes Ramírez-Ramírez

The purpose of this paper is to perform a comparative analysis between the productivity metrics recommended in the literature and those that companies in the knowledge-intensive…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform a comparative analysis between the productivity metrics recommended in the literature and those that companies in the knowledge-intensive services sector use in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

To collect information, a systematic review of the literature was used, to apply virtual surveys and interviews among managers of different companies representing the sector. For data analysis, categorical optimal scales, homogeneity tests, tetrachoric correlation matrices, word clouds and association coefficients for dichotomous variables were used.

Findings

There are association patterns between the metrics used and the nature of the work performed. Despite the heterogeneity observed in the productivity metrics, categorization guidelines related to the traditional, human resources and customer-oriented approaches emerge.

Practical implications

Possible neglects using metrics aimed at valuing the intellectual capital immersed in human resources are evident, particularly in the follow-up to autonomy, knowledge management, human capital, teamwork, training and capacity building metrics, among others. Conversely, face-to-face monitoring metrics, such as absenteeism, are overvaluation.

Originality/value

The approaches and metrics discussed and the results obtained, provide information so that knowledge-intensive companies have a reference framework to identify and select useful metrics to assess the work carried out by their workforce.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 71 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 May 2010

Yi‐Chun Huang and Yen‐Chun Jim Wu

This purpose of this paper is to examine and test the effects of human capital, organization capital, and social capital on knowledge productivity and the interactive effects…

2745

Abstract

Purpose

This purpose of this paper is to examine and test the effects of human capital, organization capital, and social capital on knowledge productivity and the interactive effects between intellectual capital and knowledge productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts questionnaires to conduct a case investigation of the Taiwan biotechnology industry (TBI) and Taiwanese pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Findings

All dimensions of intellectual capital positively and significantly influence knowledge productivity. The study proves there are interactive effects between the components of intellectual capital and knowledge productivity.

Originality/value

The paper presents a synthesis of two different literature streams – intellectual capital and knowledge productivity – in order to understand their linkage. This paper is the first to conduct a large‐sample survey to examine the relationship between intellectual capital and knowledge productivity.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 48 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 October 2018

Gianpaolo Iazzolino and Domenico Laise

The purpose of this paper is to propose and discuss, from both a theoretical and empirical point of view, a methodology for measuring the productivity of knowledge workers, then…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and discuss, from both a theoretical and empirical point of view, a methodology for measuring the productivity of knowledge workers, then giving a contribution to the question launched by P. Drucker at the end of last millennium. An application of the method on a real case of a knowledge-based firm is shown.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is both theoretical and empirical. At first, building also on Pulic’s theory of human capital efficiency (HCE) and on previous works by the same authors of this paper, a deep theoretical analysis is proposed. After, the explicit calculation of the knowledge worker productivity in a real case of a knowledge-based young firm has been carried out.

Findings

From a theoretical point of view, an inter-theory relationship between Drucker’s approach of sustainable strategies based on knowledge and the theory of HCE, mostly attributable to Pulic, has been constructed. From results of the application on the case study, it emerges that the calculation of the productivity of knowledge workers can be achieved and furthermore the result of the calculation can be the basis for the policy of rewarding within the firm.

Practical implications

The proposed methodology can support the s.c. knowledge-based firms to calculate the productivity of employees, a very practical problem for such kind of firms. Furthermore, the calculation of knowledge worker productivity is the basis for implementing a policy of rewarding employees.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is to provide a practical methodology useful to calculate knowledge worker productivity. To do so, the link between Drucker’s and Pulic’s theories has been deeply analyzed and an inter-theory relationship has been constructed. The existence of such a relation, in the authors’ opinion, is necessary to provide a theoretical foundation for the methodology proposed.

Details

Measuring Business Excellence, vol. 22 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1368-3047

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 July 2018

Miikka Palvalin

Knowledge work productivity is a well-studied topic in the existing literature, but it has focussed mainly on two things. First, there are many theoretical models lacking…

2273

Abstract

Purpose

Knowledge work productivity is a well-studied topic in the existing literature, but it has focussed mainly on two things. First, there are many theoretical models lacking empirical research, and second, there is a very specific research regarding how something impacts productivity. The purpose of this paper is to collect empirical data and test the conceptual model of knowledge work productivity in practice. The paper also provides information on how different drivers of knowledge work productivity have an impact on productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

Through the survey method, data were collected from 998 knowledge workers from Finland. Then, confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to confirm the knowledge work productivity dimensions of the conceptual model. Later, regression analysis was used to analyse the impacts of knowledge factors on productivity.

Findings

This paper increases the understanding of what matters for knowledge work productivity, with statistical analysis. The conceptual model of knowledge work productivity consists of two major elements: the knowledge worker and the work environment. The study results showed that the knowledge worker has the biggest impact on productivity through his or her well-being and work practices. The social environment was also found to be a significant driver. The results could not confirm or refute the role of the physical or virtual environment in knowledge work productivity.

Practical implications

The practical value of the study lies in the analysis results. The information generated about the factors impacting productivity can be used to improve knowledge work productivity. In addition, the limited resources available for organisational development will have the greatest return if they are used to increase intangible assets, i.e., management and work practices.

Originality/value

While it is well known that many factors are essential for knowledge work productivity, relatively few studies have examined it from as many dimensions at the same time as this study. This study adds value to the literature by providing information on which factors have the greatest influence on productivity.

Details

Employee Relations, vol. 41 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0142-5455

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 November 2018

Aino Kianto, Muhammad Shujahat, Saddam Hussain, Faisal Nawaz and Murad Ali

The productivity of knowledge workers is crucial not only for organizational innovation and competitiveness but also for sustainable development. In the context of knowledge

4940

Abstract

Purpose

The productivity of knowledge workers is crucial not only for organizational innovation and competitiveness but also for sustainable development. In the context of knowledge-intensive firms, implementation of knowledge management is likely to increase knowledge worker productivity. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of knowledge management on knowledge worker productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

A research framework on the effects of knowledge management processes on knowledge worker productivity is established and empirically tested with data from 336 knowledge workers at five mobile network operator companies in Pakistan.

Findings

The results indicate that knowledge creation and knowledge utilization impact knowledge worker productivity positively and statistically significantly. However, knowledge sharing does not have statistically significant impact on knowledge worker productivity. Demographic factors (gender, managerial position and formal education level) do not moderate the relationship between knowledge management and knowledge worker productivity statistically significantly.

Research limitations/implications

The key limitations are the cross-sectional nature of the data and the geographic limitation to telecom companies in Pakistan.

Practical implications

Irrespective of gender, education and managerial position, implementation of knowledge management can increase knowledge worker productivity. Therefore, knowledge management practices should be implemented to enhance the knowledge worker productivity via fostering the knowledge worker’s engagement in and propensity to knowledge management processes.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to examine the likely influence of knowledge management on the productivity of knowledge workers conclusively while controlling for three individual demographic factors. This study also addresses the effectiveness of knowledge management in the little-explored cultural context of Pakistan.

Details

Baltic Journal of Management, vol. 14 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-5265

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 2014

Corry Ehlen, Marcel van der Klink, Uta Roentgen, Emile Curfs and Henny Boshuizen

The purpose of this paper is to test the feasibility of a conceptual model on relations between organisational innovation, knowledge productivity and social capital. It explores…

1679

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the feasibility of a conceptual model on relations between organisational innovation, knowledge productivity and social capital. It explores processes of knowledge productivity for sustainable innovation and associated HRD implications in knowledge intensive organisations, taking the perspective that social capital is a key influencing condition.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative case-study concerned a large-scale innovation project between knowledge-intensive organisations. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 participants from six innovation groups as well as with the project management.

Findings

Findings showed that four dimensions of social capital influence knowledge productivity, each requiring a minimum quality to create a rich innovation environment for sustainable results. The relational and cognitive dimensions seem most important, while the action dimension makes them productive. Knowledge productivity appears twofold, i.e. organisational innovation, and professional ability for future innovation. Found are 18 new indicators.

Research limitations/implications

Only one large-scale inter-organisational case was conducted.

Practical implications

It is suggested that project management, group leaders and HRD officers target social capital as condition for knowledge productivity that should be stimulated, not just by planned interventions, but by “being” there as supporter, coach and mediator.

Originality/value

The article contributes to our knowledge about innovations in knowledge-rich organisations, broadens the concept of knowledge productivity, and provides a new framework of social capital as intervention model for HRD. In addition, not often dealt with in literature, the dynamic of innovation is shown.

Details

European Journal of Training and Development, vol. 38 no. 1/2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-9012

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 September 2012

Majid Ramezan

The purpose of this paper is to develop a validated model for measuring the knowledge productivity in knowledge‐based organizations.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a validated model for measuring the knowledge productivity in knowledge‐based organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A list of affecting factors on knowledge productivity was initially obtained from a literature review and verified by a panel of selected experts. The final model was formulated based on the responses of the experts. A survey questionnaire was then developed to collect data from knowledge workers.

Findings

The results show that there are strong correlations between organizational learning, intellectual capital and innovation. The statistical analysis support that the dimensions of learning (individual, group and organization) have positive impact on dimensions of intellectual capital (human, social and structural). Finally, the output of intellectual capital is the ability to create knowledge‐based results or innovation.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this research is the lack of literature about knowledge productivity.

Originality/value

As not many studies have been done on knowledge productivity, the paper's findings will be useful to assess the learning ability to create knowledge‐based results or innovation in organizations.

Details

Education, Business and Society: Contemporary Middle Eastern Issues, vol. 5 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-7983

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Joseph K. Nwankpa and Yazan F. Roumani

This study aims to explore the effects of remote work on employee productivity and innovation and how these effects are moderated by knowledge sharing and digital business…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the effects of remote work on employee productivity and innovation and how these effects are moderated by knowledge sharing and digital business intensity.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on survey data from a random sample of 231 remote workers across the USA. The analysis and empirical validation of the research model used partial least square.

Findings

The results demonstrate a positive association between remote work and employee productivity. In addition, the findings present empirical support for hitherto anecdotal evidence regarding the impact of remote work on innovation. In particular, the study notes that knowledge sharing and digital business intensity amplified the positive relationship between remote work and employee productivity. The results further revealed that the positive link between remote work and innovation was stronger in the presence of knowledge sharing.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the ongoing inquiry into remote work by drawing on the knowledge-based view as an underlying lens to understand the consequence of remote work. Identifying knowledge sharing and digital business intensity as moderators of the linkage between remote work and employee productivity is an important contribution, especially when researchers and practitioners are trying to understand the business value of working remotely. Furthermore, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to identify knowledge sharing as a key mechanism that strengthens innovation outcomes in a remote work environment.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 10 October 2022

Obafemi Onyedikachi Olekanma

This chapter presents the key results of a research project that explored managing service productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa through the lens of lived experiences of bank…

Abstract

This chapter presents the key results of a research project that explored managing service productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa through the lens of lived experiences of bank executives employed as ‘knowledge workers’ in the Nigerian banking sector. The study adopted a qualitative phenomenological research design. Data was gathered from 16 Nigerian top bank executives purposively selected using semi-structured face-to-face interviews. Trans Positional Cognition Approach (TPCA), a new phenomenological research method, was used to analyse the data gathered. The study data analysis yielded five themes; micromanagement practices, use of dysfunctional strategies to drive service operations, deposit mobilisation target as a productivity measure, managerial indifference to potential nescience economy issues and master-servant (power culture) strategy, which epitomises fundamental managerial approaches adopted in the sector. The study identified critical service productivity management issues grounded in reality that influence the capability and potentiality of the study knowledge workers. It also contributes the novel, ‘official knowledge worker lived experience of service productivity model’ for use by decision-makers in the banking sector. Thus, it sets an agenda for these ‘knowledge workers’ line managers’ and bank regulators in the research setting. The study extended the viable system model by applying it in this phenomenological enquiry and using it to explain/deepen our understanding of the findings that emerged. The output of this work contributes to scholarly knowledge on service productivity management from the sub-Saharan African banks’ perspective. It can be generalisable in countries with similar financial and economic characteristics like the research setting.

Article
Publication date: 20 April 2015

Chih-Hsing(Sam) Liu

The purpose of this paper is to explore how individuals can leverage interpersonal relationships and critical network position to acquire knowledge and information for generate…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how individuals can leverage interpersonal relationships and critical network position to acquire knowledge and information for generate research productivity. Specifically, this paper argues that the relationship between tie strength and scholar productivity will be an inverted U-shape, and critical position as moderating role in research productivity generation process. The robustness tests were also provided.

Design/methodology/approach

Using panel data from scholars in tourism academic fields, this paper investigated the conditions under which maintenance of social relations affects knowledge creation. In total, two different regression models and robustness tests were used to test the hypotheses in a sample of 201 tourism scholars from Taiwan and an analysis of 1,198 publications.

Findings

The results showed that the relationship between tie strength and scholar productivity will be an inverted U-shape. Moreover, the moderating role of critical position of structural holes and betweennesss are recognized: it positively moderates with tie strengths and research productivity.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical results are derived from a sample of scholars in Taiwanese business management departments, thus raising concern about the external generalizability to other departments and countries. Future research is, therefore, suggested to empirically test the validity of the framework and hypothesis in other departments or countries.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the results are that individuals need to know that there are two underlying governing forces on the choice of their knowledge exchange partners and occupying critical network position. A diversified social relation is beneficial to the knowledge creation performance because of more information knowledge sharing while a specialized knowledge would avoid the detrimental effects of coordination and conflict problems on research productivity. Therefore, individuals should understand and careful choice their cooperation partners and network position in order to achieve better knowledge creation outcome.

Originality/value

This research extends developments in social capital theory and the relational view into interpersonal relationships between tourism scholars and their cooperation partners. Furthermore, the paper also examines how critical position has effects on scholar’s research productivity creation process. Finally, studies that examine the relationship between tourism academic networks and different measures of research productivity are few in number, and those that use such longitudinal empirical work are particularly lacking. This study addresses these issues.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 53 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

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