Title: Knowledge management in an innovative virtual company

Authors: Rob G. Isaac; Irene M. Herremans; Jamal A. Nazari

Addresses: Deceased; formerly of: Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive, NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada ' Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive, NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada ' Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5A 1S6, Canada

Abstract: Through a longitudinal case study, we examine the structure, characteristics, and team dynamics that motivate innovation within a virtual company. By determining the extent to which the knowledge management and organisational learning literatures apply to a virtual company, Flare Solutions Limited, we are able to identify unique characteristics that motivate creativity within the partners of the company. Utilising a case study and an action research approach, we found that this company integrates an interesting mix of mechanistic and organic elements within its structure to operate successfully as a learning organisation within a virtual environment. As well, the company has concretely identified and inventoried its knowledge, and other aspects of intellectual capital, permitting a clearer understanding of its operations. Our work offers a contribution as to how virtual companies can generate an atmosphere of creativity and innovation to create, preserve, and disseminate knowledge within a virtual company.

Keywords: intellectual capital; knowledge transfer; learning organisation; team dynamics; virtual company.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLIC.2017.087335

International Journal of Learning and Intellectual Capital, 2017 Vol.14 No.4, pp.388 - 405

Received: 05 Jan 2016
Accepted: 07 Dec 2016

Published online: 13 Oct 2017 *

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