Integrating, sharing, and sourcing knowledge in an ERP usage context

This study focuses on the impact of three knowledge management processes – knowledge integration (KI), knowledge sharing (KS) and knowledge sourcing – on business process performance in an integrated system usage context. Using a controlled research environment, we analysed 72 communication episodes and performance data within six integrated business process teams that used a real enterprise resource planning system to support their decisions. Results show that communication behaviours executed to integrate individuals’ knowledge had a positive impact on process performance, whereas KS and knowledge sourcing behaviours between individuals inhibited process performance.