Knowledge Management System Adoption Approach and the Critical Success Factors in Small Medium Enterprise: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Knowledge is a substantial factor in an organization, therefore successful implementation of Knowledge Management (KM) or Knowledge Management System (KMS) is important thing for many organizations. This applies for both for large companies, as well as for companies categorized as Small Medium Enterprise (SME). How each companies find solution to deal with KM problems, how to adopt KMS in their company’s structure, and what the Critical Success Factors (CSF) need to be highlighted to implement those KMS often vary depending on the size of the organization. Regarding to this issue, this study is aimed to find out how the adoption approach and CSF in the implementation of KM / KMS in SME. On the other hand, this study also can improve the state-of-the-art for KM / KMS implementation in SME and the important CSF in implementing it. A systematic review was performed in this literature review, with the steps as follows: (1) structure the research question, (2) define inclusion-exclusion criteria, (3) paper quality assessment, and (4) data extraction.  The study found that in the last 5 years from the time when this research is conducted, TABLE 1which is from 2016 to 2021, SME has been using many methods like training, meeting, sharing session, repository, and research as a part of their KM / KMS adoption approach. We found also in the last 5 years the CSF for implementing KM / KMS in SME are as follows: organization structure and flexibility, organization culture towards KM adoption, the quality of the knowledge, and communication within and across areas in the organization. communication within and across areas of the organization, and team works within and across areas in the organization. SME can use this research as guideline for implementing KM / KMS in their organization.