Knowledge sharing between different generations in engineering field

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of particular study is to explore individuals’ perceptions of knowledge sharing and its obstacles in a multigenerational engineering company. This study focuses on two groups of individuals: employees and managers. The perception of knowledge sharing and how differently generations perceive it is covered in this study. The obstacles which could occur during knowledge sharing between different generations in the engineering field are explored. The role of management in knowledge sharing processes is also covered. Methodology: To explore individuals’ perceptions of knowledge sharing and its obstacles in a multigenerational engineering company. A qualitative research approach was applied, using single company case study strategy. The case company is one of the leading construction engineering companies in Latvia. The primary data was gathered by conducting 12 semi-structured interviews, 3 interviews per every generation (Millennial, Generation X and Baby boomer) and 3 interviews with managers. The secondary data was obtained from the company, which included internal documents covering the general information about the company, guidelines and policies. By the usage of primary and secondary data triangulation of the study was reached. Findings: The thesis provides analysis of knowledge sharing and its obstacles within the multigenerational workforce of a construction engineering company. The perceptions of three generational cohorts such as Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennials are presented. The conceptual framework for the study was built on the basis of three dimensions such as organizational. individual and technological obstacles. Based on the conceptual framework, authors brought up several propositions which supported the analysis process. The analysis showed that there are differences in perception of knowledge sharing and obstacles connected with it between engineers of different generations. Originality: There has not been any research about knowledge sharing between different generations in Latvia nor in Northern Europe, in general. The engineering field is a knowledge intensive sector, therefore knowledge sharing is crucial. Labor force still contains three different generations, thus it is important to explore whether engineering companies in Latvia have faced knowledge sharing obstacles, as it is a rapidly developing sector in this particular country.