International Journal of Knowledge Management Studies (6 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Social capital formation in Zhihu and Xiaohongshu: a comparative study of interest-oriented virtual communities  
  by Jinyan Liao, Sameer Kumar, Fumitaka Furuoka 
  Abstract: With the rise of digital platforms, virtual communities have become essential for knowledge sharing and social capital construction. This study explores social capital formation in interest-driven online platforms, focusing on Zhihu and Xiaohongshu. Using social capital theory, we examine trust mechanisms, reciprocal cooperation, and the evolution of interpersonal networks within these communities. The study finds that user interactions driven by shared interests not only build trust and belonging but also enhances knowledge dissemination and innovation. Effective incentive mechanisms and content management strategies boost participation and interaction quality, promoting social capital accumulation. The paper highlights the interplay between structural, relational, and cognitive social capital in fostering knowledge sharing and sustainable community development, providing valuable insights for optimising virtual community management. Additionally, the study identifies several emergent patterns that offer new perspectives on how micro-niche groups and weak ties contribute to social capital development.
  Keywords: virtual community; social capital; knowledge sharing; interest-driven community; community theory; social interaction.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2026.10077485
   
  
• Digital technologies to offset the knowledge divide: a systematic literature review  
  by Chaimae Bouha, Lamiae Benhayoun 
  Abstract: Emerging technologies are increasingly pervasive across domains including knowledge management, where they enhance information processing and support strategies, but contribute to a persistent knowledge divide. This study conducts a systematic literature review spanning a decade (2014-2024) to examine how emerging technologies can mitigate this divide within organisational and social contexts, while addressing the challenges posed by the excessive digital-driven information overload. The findings highlight the contributions of artificial intelligence, big data analytics, social network platforms, and mobile applications for enhancing knowledge equity through adaptive learning and informed decision-making. However, literature lacks a thorough understanding of AI-driven information overload in terms of cognitive capacities and institutional readiness. This review calls for future research using longitudinal and large-scale studies to enhance theoretical and managerial understanding of how a multi-stakeholder approach integrating regulatory frameworks, adaptive interfaces, and inclusive educational policies bridges the digital divide while ensuring information remains accessible and manageable.
  Keywords: emerging technologies; digital transformation; artificial intelligence; AI; knowledge management; knowledge divide; digital divide; information overload; psychological impact; systematic literature review.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2026.10077533
   
  
• The effect of cross-generational knowledge sharing and edge organisation capabilities on fostering innovations  
  by M.R.M.C.J.K. Rathnayake, Ananda K. L. Jayawardana, A.W.M.M. Atapattu 
  Abstract: This study investigates the impact of cross-generational knowledge sharing (CGK) on innovative behaviour (IB) within edge organisations, mediated by edge organisation capabilities (EOC). Drawing on social cognitive theory, it explores how diverse generational insights foster continuous learning and adaptation, essential for innovation. A quantitative approach with a cross-sectional survey examined edge organisational capabilities in IT-based multinational corporations (MNCs) in Sri Lanka. Data were collected from 382 employees across multiple generational cohorts. Findings indicate a significant influence of CGK on edge organisational capabilities, highlighting agility, decentralised knowledge, and shared awareness as pivotal. Moreover, these capabilities significantly enhance IB, underscoring their role in translating generational knowledge into innovative outcomes. The originality lies in conceptualising and investigating specific EOC within knowledge-intensive, innovation-driven contexts. Although edge organisations are recognised for agility and decentralised structures, the specific capabilities connecting these traits to innovation through CGK have received limited scholarly attention.
  Keywords: innovative behaviour; IB; cross-generational knowledge sharing; CGK; edge organisations; edge organisational capabilities.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2026.10078067
   
  
• Addressing the role of know-why in SMEs’ knowledge transfer: conceptual foundations  
  by Fatemeh Dinmohammadi, Sajjad Vojdanian, Henri Hussinki 
  Abstract: This research develops a conceptual framework for the mediating role of know-why in knowledge transfer processes within SMEs. Know-why refers to understanding the strategic principles and logic behind decision-making and is integrated into the knowledge management function. Grounded in the G-SECI model, the study highlights know-why as an intermediary mechanism bridging tacit and explicit knowledge. Through a systematic review of knowledge management theories and contextual analysis of SMEs, key pathways are identified where know-why enhances knowledge transfer, innovation, and strategic alignment. The findings suggest that combining know-why with knowledge fields strengthens organisational learning, adaptability, and sustainable competitive advantage, particularly for resource-constrained firms. While empirical validation is still needed, this theory-driven study offers testable propositions on how know-why mediation helps SMEs balance operational efficiency and strategic insight. Emphasising the interaction between knowledge fields and know-why, it contributes to advancing both theory and practice in knowledge management.
  Keywords: knowledge fields; know-why; knowledge transfer; G-SECI model; SMEs.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2026.10078274
   
  
• Driving product life cycle: the relevance of knowledge-oriented leadership, customer knowledge management, competitor analysis and innovation quality  
  by Zhenia Tahmasebinia, Amir Mohebi, Mahmoud Dehghan Nayeri, Foozhan Tahmasebinia 
  Abstract: This study investigates how knowledge-oriented leadership (KOL), customer knowledge management (CKM), and competitor analysis (CA) influence product and process innovation quality and, in turn, early product life cycle performance in Irans confectionery industry. Using survey data from 225 senior managers and analysing the relationships with PLS-SEM, we find that KOL strongly enhances both CKM and CA. However, only CKM directly improves innovation quality, while CA shows no significant effect. Higher innovation quality subsequently leads to stronger outcomes in the introduction and growth phases of the PLC. Mediation analysis further reveals that CKM transmits the effect of KOL to innovation quality, and innovation quality conveys CKMs impact on PLC performance, with no evidence for CA-based mediations. Theoretically, these findings integrate leadership, knowledge management, and life cycle perspectives to demonstrate that customer-centric knowledge flows are the primary pathway linking leadership to superior innovation in a risk-averse sector. Practically, managers should foster a KOL style and embed CKM systems to capture real-time customer insights, while treating competitor intelligence as a secondary input.
  Keywords: knowledge-oriented leadership; KOL; customer knowledge management; CKM; competitor analysis; innovation quality; product’s life cycle.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2026.10078774
   
  
• Workplace spirituality: an in-depth analysis of existing literature and future research avenues  
  by Neema Gupta, Prashant Kumar Siddhey, Bhaskara Srinivas 
  Abstract: The workplace spirituality (WPS) has been receiving significant interest in recent decades across a range of scientific disciplines and in a number of WPS-related topics, including concepts and forms of WPS, its causes and consequences, WPS interventions, etc. The current study provides a classification and summary of recent WPS literature and highlights knowledge gaps that need to be filled by additional empirical investigation. This paper systematically reviews workplace spirituality (WPS) research to identify its proved and unproved dimensions. The review synthesises 94 empirical studies published between 1999 and 2024, categorising them into conceptual, antecedent, consequential, and intervention-based themes. Findings reveal that while the conceptualisation and consequences of WPS are well established, empirical understanding of contextual and cultural influences remains limited. The paper concludes with a refined model and directions for future research on the evolving domain of WPS.
  Keywords: work place spirituality; WPS; WPS causes; WPS consequences; WPS interventions; WPS literature.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJKMS.2026.10078846