The Impact of Organizational Culture on Knowledge Management: A Comprehensive Review of Facilitators, Barriers, and Improvement Strategies

This study aims to explore the intricate relationship between organizational culture and knowledge management (KM), emphasizing the cultural factors that either facilitate or hinder effective KM practices. Employing a review-based research method, this paper synthesizes insights from previous academic studies to examine the theoretical foundations and empirical findings regarding the interplay between organizational culture and KM. The findings reveal several cultural factors that positively influence KM processes. Supportive cultures characterized by trust, open communication, and collaboration foster an environment where knowledge sharing and creation flourish. Transformational leadership and clan-oriented cultures enhance knowledge exchange by building a sense of community and shared purpose. Moreover, creative organizational climates and learning-oriented cultures promote innovation and the continuous acquisition of knowledge, ultimately driving organizational adaptability. Conversely, the study identifies cultural barriers that impede KM effectiveness. Rigid hierarchical structures, lack of transparency, knowledge hoarding, time constraints, and limited managerial capacity restrict the flow of knowledge and diminish collaboration. Such environments prevent organizations from leveraging collective intelligence, thereby hindering innovation and problem-solving. To address these challenges, the paper highlights several practical solutions, including conducting cultural assessments, implementing targeted training programs, leveraging digital collaboration tools, promoting transformational leadership, and encouraging unlearning initiatives. Establishing structured knowledge-sharing forums is also recommended to nurture a culture where knowledge exchange becomes integral to organizational life. Overall, this research underscores the critical role of organizational culture in shaping KM practices and provides actionable insights for organizations seeking to optimize their knowledge management efforts through cultural transformation.

Keywords:

Organizational Culture , Knowledge management , KM , Review Article