Abstract
The importance of knowledge in today's competitive and knowledge-driven landscape has become one of the major success factors for organizations. However, some organizations are particularly faced with challenges of knowledge transfer and knowledge retention. Those include higher education institution administration, which continue to lose organizational knowledge as a result of employee retirement, resignation, and other factors. The day-to-day operations of the businesses are furthermore negatively impacted as a result of a lack of qualified and experienced workers to meet production demands.
The study sought to provide insight into the administration of a university. Challenges and benefits of knowledge retention and transfer are explored. Using the theories of knowledge transfer and knowledge retention, this study examines the application of knowledge management to the management of higher education institutions in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The study attempted to illuminate this topic from various perspectives through quantitative research.
The study findings showed that there are few benefits and challenges to knowledge retention and knowledge transfer in higher education. Mobility challenges, cultural issues, and succession planning were identified as challenges. The benefits of effective knowledge transfer and knowledge, such as mentorship and training, a community of practice, technology, performance appraisal, storytelling, senior management, and collaboration with other organizations, were identified in the study. These benefits can be utilized by the administration of a university to improve service and work performance.