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A systematic literature review on knowledge management in SMEs: current trends and future directions

Author

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  • Susanne Durst

    (Tallinn University of Technology)

  • Samuel Foli

    (Tallinn University of Technology)

  • Ingi Runar Edvardsson

    (University of Iceland)

Abstract

It is generally known that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a significant driver of employment and economic growth for the majority of world economies. At the same time, SMEs are more fragile in times of crisis which in turn restricts their possibilities for action. In such an environment, it appears even more relevant for SMEs to consider knowledge and its management. Given that, it seems relevant to have an in-depth understanding of knowledge management (KM) in SMEs so that it can be better promoted. Therefore, this paper conducts a systematic literature review of the extant literature on KM in SMEs to present a state-of-the-art understanding. The review covers 180 papers from leading journals that have been published between 2012 and 2022. The review provides insight into the diversity and evolution of KM in SME research and evaluates the extant body of literature covered. Additionally, a framework is proposed that relates existing research on KM to SMEs. The paper concludes with proposals for future research on KM in SMEs.

Suggested Citation

  • Susanne Durst & Samuel Foli & Ingi Runar Edvardsson, 2024. "A systematic literature review on knowledge management in SMEs: current trends and future directions," Management Review Quarterly, Springer, vol. 74(1), pages 263-288, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:manrev:v:74:y:2024:i:1:d:10.1007_s11301-022-00299-0
    DOI: 10.1007/s11301-022-00299-0
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Small and medium-sized enterprises; Small business management; Knowledge management; Knowledge; Systematic literature review;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M0 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - General
    • M10 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - General
    • M1 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration
    • M19 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - Other

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