Knowledge Sharing and Application in Complex Software and Systems Development in Globally Distributed High-Tech Organizations Using Suitable IT Tools

Although the quality of complex software and systems development greatly depends on the effectiveness of knowledge sharing and application, there is a dearth of research on effective knowledge sharing and application in globally distributed complex software and systems development of high-tech organizations by using suitable IT tools. Knowledge sharing and application in globally distributed complex software and systems development often fails due to inappropriate tools, processes, strategies and culture. Hence, the research is conducted to fill in this gap by examining how knowledge sharing and application can be facilitated, reviewing applicable theories (i.e. absorptive capacity theory) and identifying the most appropriate IT tools, methods and strategies that can significantly enhance knowledge sharing and application in developing complex software and systems in globally distributed high-tech organizations. An IT-supported framework has been developed based on an extensive review of past literature, expert views and personal experience in the field. The framework presents the most relevant IT tools, methods and strategies that have the capacities to facilitate knowledge sharing and application in globally distributed teams of high-tech organizations to a greater extent. The framework can be applied in both research and practice. The implications and future research directions are discussed as well.