Title: Strategic management of knowledge in globally distributed information technology firms: a case study

Authors: Mohammed Arshad Khan; Santanu Roy

Addresses: Sapient Corporation, NOIDA Oxygen Boulevard, Tower C, First Floor, Plot No. 7, Sector 144 Expressway, NOIDA 201301, U.P., India ' Institute of Management Technology (IMT), UG-02 Dubai International Academic City, P.O. Box 345006, Dubai, UAE

Abstract: Knowledge management is being increasingly recognised as a strategic tool across organisational domains for employee involvement, engagement and for creating business-wide impact towards productivity and profitability. These organisations are increasingly using their acquired knowledge to optimise and increase their operational efficiency, drive down operational cost and solve their business pain points. This assumes criticality in information technology firms that operate on a truly global scale across cultures, economies and political systems. The present study probes into these aspects by presenting a case of a successful globally distributed international information technology major that has risen to great heights in the recent past. This case study reflects upon the innovative steps adopted by the IT major, Sapient Corporation, to enhance the knowledge management competencies of the enterprise and of the employees that are so essential for a company's survival and growth in today's turbulent times. The case refers to the steps taken by the company to develop knowledge generation and assimilation tools on its own as well as in partnership with other companies. The case details the evolution of the major components of this strategic initiative adopted by Sapient. The implications of the study results are discussed.

Keywords: knowledge management; KM; information technology firms; strategic initiative; globally distributed firms; strategic management; knowledge assimilation; knowledge generation; Sapient Corporation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTMKT.2013.056886

International Journal of Technology Marketing, 2013 Vol.8 No.4, pp.369 - 385

Published online: 28 Feb 2014 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article