Knowledge Sharing in IT consultancy firms : Exploring the knowledge sharing mechanisms in small IT consultancy firms

Abstract: Knowledge management is a key avenue for consulting firms to ensure survival and maintain competitive advantage. Prior research has focused on many different aspects of knowledge sharing in IT firms and projects. However, even when the importance of KS is acknowledged in IT consulting firms, little is known about how the mechanisms look like inside these firms. The purpose of this study is to explore the knowledge sharing mechanisms in small IT consulting firms or offices. Qualitative methods were used to approach the KS phenomenon, which involves six interviews that included senior consultants and managers from various firms. The results show that the small firms have a better advantage when it comes to sharing. Furthermore, that most knowledge sharing in these firms occur in an informal way since consultants prefer social interaction than using systems. Finally, the results show that a concept labelled as “Knowledge market” strongly exist in consultancy firms in small cities like Umeå.