Knowledge transfer in project-based organizations. A conceptual model for investigating knowledge type, transfer mechanisms and transfer success

Abstract

Knowledge transfers across projects in Project-Based Organizations (PBOs) are more complex and challenging than in the permanent organizational context due to the temporary nature of project teams in which team members do not see capturing and transferring across projects as important for long term benefits to the organization. Although knowledge transfer is well researched, few empirical studies have covered the implementation of knowledge transfer across projects in project-based organizations. To gain an overview of the knowledge transfer process in PBOs, a systematic literature review is conducted to the three theoretical concepts of interest in this study, namely knowledge type, transfer mechanisms and transfer success. The literature review identified several dimensions under each theoretical concept. Subsequently a conceptual model with two propositions is proposed for future empirical study in the relationships amongst the three theoretical concepts.