Does Knowledge Management Improve Firm Performance? The Effect of Knowledge Distinctive Competences

Abstract

In the resource-based view (RBV) approach, the knowledge border rests on the understanding of the distinctive competences creation and recreation process. Moreover, in spite of the importance of knowledge assets, how knowledge is generated in organizations is still an unknown factor. This research studies the effect of introducing knowledge management programs in the development of knowledge distinctive competences, as well as their capability to create economic rents. In addition, we established a conceptual delimitation of knowledge management as a directive system through a set of principles and practices, which is a theoretical innovation in this research line. The theoretical relationships we propose are tested in an empirical study carried out in 222 firms from the Spanish biotechnology and telecommunication sectors.