Modelling of a Knowledge Network in Knowledge-based Enterprises

The purpose of this study was to model the factors that affect the knowledge networks in knowledge-based companies. Methodologically, the research is of a hybrid-exploratory type. By combining quantitative and qualitative methods and relying on experts' opinions, the factors influencing the formation of knowledge networks and their relationships to knowledge-based companies were identified and ranked. In order to analyze the data, the content analysis method and the structural interpretation model were used in qualitative and quantitative stages respectively. The results of this study showed that the development of management processes has the greatest impact on the formation of knowledge networks, and the most influential factors are at the first level of the model. These factors include the type of knowledge, cultural factors, organizational structures and communication mechanisms. It is suggested that, in the field of research and technology and even in other operational areas, the current dispersal schemes of knowledge management be replaced by inter-organizational knowledge networks and the model developed in this research.