Journal
JOURNAL OF KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT
Volume 24, Issue 6, Pages 1263-1288Publisher
EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTD
DOI: 10.1108/JKM-11-2019-0623
Keywords
Digital transformation; SMEs; Knowledge sharing; Knowledge brokers; Digital innovation hubs
Categories
Ask authors/readers for more resources
Purpose This study aims to understand if and how European digital innovation hubs (DIHs) filling the role of knowledge brokers (KBs) can support the digital transformation (DX) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by triggering open innovation (OI) practices. Design/methodology/approach After presenting a conceptual model of reference, a survey and a subsequent in-depth interview were conducted to capture evidence from Italian DIHs. These structures were selected for their growing importance, as confirmed by the National Plan for Industry 4.0. Findings The findings highlight that Italian DIHs act not only as KBs but also as knowledge sources that give rise to a digital imprinting process that is able to shape the DX of SMEs. Originality/value Research on knowledge sharing and OI has mainly focused on large firms. The study covers the gaps identified in the literature by considering the role of KBs in enabling SMEs to embrace DX.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available