Knowledge-oriented leadership, knowledge management behaviour and innovation performance in project-based SMEs. The moderating role of goal orientations
Journal of Knowledge Management
ISSN: 1367-3270
Article publication date: 9 July 2020
Issue publication date: 8 September 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the association of knowledge-oriented leadership (KOL), knowledge management (KM) behaviour and innovation performance in project-based small and medium-sized enterprises. It investigates the moderation of goal-orientation in the relationship of KOL with knowledge-acquisition, transfer, documentation and application.
Design/methodology/approach
Data are collected from 215 employees in 32 small project-based software firms in Pakistan. Partial least square is used to test the hypotheses.
Findings
KOL is positively associated with KM behaviour and innovation performance. KM mediates the relationship of KOL and innovation performance. Furthermore, goal orientations play a moderating role in the relationship of KOL with knowledge acquisition, transfer and application activities.
Originality/value
This study extends the literature on knowledge-based dynamic capabilities, by examining the relationship of KOL, KM behaviour and project-based innovation performance. Investigating the moderation of goal-orientation in the relationship of KOL with KM behaviour is also an original contribution.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The author acknowledges the financial support provided by the Internal Grant Agency (IGA/FaME/2020/003) of FaME through Tomas Bata University in Zlín.
Citation
Zia, N.U. (2020), "Knowledge-oriented leadership, knowledge management behaviour and innovation performance in project-based SMEs. The moderating role of goal orientations", Journal of Knowledge Management, Vol. 24 No. 8, pp. 1819-1839. https://doi.org/10.1108/JKM-02-2020-0127
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited