Organisational knowledge retention strategies and their effectiveness in promoting knowledge transfer for the development of future public library managers

Abstract

Organisational knowledge retention strategies are key drivers towards ensuring the ongoing sustainability and profitability of organisations. When employees resign or retire, they leave with key organisational knowledge and experience, thereby putting the organisation at risk. Within the COCTLIS there is a similar risk when Librarians-in-Charge (LiCs), leave the organisation, as they have accumulated years of experience of organisational, professional, technical, and community knowledge, to name a few. Without effective organisational knowledge retention (KR) strategies, service delivery may be impacted negatively. This study therefore aimed to investigate organisational knowledge retention strategies and their effectiveness in promoting knowledge transfer for the development of future public library managers at the City of Cape Town Library and Information Services (COCT LIS).The study was guided by the Socialisation, Externalisation, Combination and Internalisation (SECI) model of Knowledge Creation. The study was guided by the positivist paradigm. The quantitative research method was employed through the use of a survey. A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The study targeted the 101 LiCs of COCTLIS through the total population sampling technique. Google sheets were used to analyse the data which was presented in tables, figures and written descriptions. The major findings of this study revealed that while COCTLIS had some good KR practices in place, such as formal training and development practices and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing (KS), a formal knowledge management (KM) programme was lacking. Further challenges highlighted were a resistance from staff to share knowledge and limited opportunities for job shadowing or mentoring. The top recommendations made were the encouragement of a culture of KS and collaboration across library teams. The significance of this study was aimed at creating an awareness of KR and KT practices and benefits among COCTLIS professional library staff and identify best practices for promoting knowledge retention and transfer in public libraries. This study was delimited to a single research method. As no follow-up interviews were conducted, the study may have limited detailed and in-depth responses.