Abstract
Knowledge sharing (KS) is one of the most important knowledge management (KM) processes that enable value adding KM initiatives within the organisation. The flow of knowledge between individuals within the organisation, leads to the creation and enhancement of intangible assets known as intellectual capital (IC) through the process of combination and contextualisation of different pieces of knowledge. This intangible asset known as IC, is regarded as the unique competitive advantage of the organisation due to the difficulty to imitate by the competitors. In the context of the project environment, IC plays an integral role in improving the project management (PM) capability and competencies while also creating a knowledge base. This research focuses on the investigation of KS as the means of enhancing IC within the project environment of a South African power utility (SAPU). The SAPU currently involved in the construction of many projects across South Africa has the opportunity to create and enhance IC through the use of KM processes such as KS that will become beneficial in terms of improving project planning and execution due to enhanced competencies and PM capability. Currently there are KS practices that are taking place within the SAPU's project environment, however, certain major challenges are hindering this process which results in a lost opportunity to enhance IC and build sufficient capacity to improve on project execution. The respondents of this study agreed to the value of KS as a means of enhancing IC with the SAPU's project environment by acknowledging its potential of improving PM capability, enhancing the competencies and building a knowledge base. Certain key recommendations that were considered critical for the success of KM processes such as KS included the following: 1. Leadership should champion the development and implementation of KM programs within the SAPU's project environment. 2. KM should be integrated within the project life cycle model (PLCM) to become part of projects within the SAPU.
3. Enforced governance and rewards as well as recognition systems are recommended for promoting KS in the SAPU’s project environment.
M.Com. (Business Management)