Knowledge management in the shipping industry : the effects of human mobility on the organisational knowledge base and effective knowledge transfer practices : a perspective from China

摘要: The severe shortage of skilled and qualified personnel in the shipping industry has been addressed various ways. This thesis looks into issue from a new perspective where high mobility is seen as vehicle knowledge flows that can be used for transfer. rationality this approach considered most important asset an organisation possibly use leverage to gain competitive advantage, fact management practices have successfully applied industries such pharmaceutical, oil gas skill shortages major obstacle development. It argued while cannot stop leaving, it possible, by utilising effective practices, retain part held personnel. As there dearth research on industry, objective explore appropriate application industry. achieved (i) identifying components organisational base (OKB); (ii) examining effects human OKB; (iii) investigating transfer A conceptual framework established address these three questions. In order empirically validate models, sample Chinese companies (ship owners, manning companies, ship managers) was selected mail survey. survey generated 60 per cent response rate which 166 valid questionnaires were returned. wide range statistical techniques reliability, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson‟s correlation, factor analysis (PCA), multiple regression, employed analyse data collected survey. The study made number findings. First, OKB consists fourteen with four dimensions, perceived importance vary according business sectors, fleet sizes, respondents‟ total work experience. Secondly, all movements except those ratings are critical OKB. Such predicted two factors regarding current workforce stability (total preferred workforce, optimism). Finally, comprised elements main domains, is, culture, leadership, technology. regression finds (a four-factor solution) do not explain practices. found, however, some affected establishment department or designation chief officer, correlations between information communication technology related current/preferred means communication. It suggested through identification composition OKB, should provide supportive strong relevant resources manage its transfer, given impacts