Identifying knowledge agents in a KM strategy: the use of the structural influence index

Knowledge transfer is a complex KM activity that integrates communication technologies with challenging social, cultural, and organizational issues. It is critical to effective KM systems (KMS) and the development of effective transfer strategies enhances competitive advantage. This study incorporated the theory of organizational influence to demonstrate the structural influence index within a network KMS. Using the research process in the pharmaceutical industry as a basis for knowledge transfer events, this study demonstrated the benefits of structural indexing, which identifies knowledge agents, evaluates knowledge sharing among organizational members, and objectively assesses the contribution of knowledge agents. Subgrouping knowledge agents gave insight into knowledge sharing among members and provided a basis for the coordination of knowledge resources in new and unique ways.