Title: Trust and electronic knowledge transfer

Authors: Joanne Roberts

Addresses: University of Durham Business School, Mill Hill Lane, Durham City, DH1 3LB, UK

Abstract: This paper seeks to advance the understanding of the transfer of knowledge through electronic communication by focusing on the role of trust. The exchange of knowledge gives rise to risks and uncertainties that are alleviated when a high degree of trust exists between the parties involved in the exchange. The paper begins with a brief exploration of the nature of trust. This is followed by an examination of knowledge and its transfer. A discussion of the role of trust in the exchange of knowledge is then presented before electronic communication is considered as a means of exchanging knowledge. The relationship between trust and knowledge transfer, through both electronic and face-to-face communication, is given systematic consideration and summarised in the form of a tentative model of trust and knowledge transfer. Finally, implications are considered and directions for further research are outlined in the concluding section.

Keywords: trust; knowledge; codified knowledge; tacit knowledge; knowledge transfer; electronic communication; e-commerce.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEB.2003.002172

International Journal of Electronic Business, 2003 Vol.1 No.2, pp.168-186

Published online: 21 Jul 2003 *

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