A Literature Review: Exploring the Influence of Trust on Knowledge Sharing in Project Teams within Project-based Organisations

Abstract

The characterisation of knowledge as the primary productive resource of organisations rather than capital, natural resources, or labour, has prompted an increase in the interest of knowledge, however, it is acknowledged that it is in the sharing of knowledge where the value is held. From this perspective it is conceded that knowledge sharing amongst team members as an intangible asset, has the power to maintain and sustain organisational growth, and survival. Therefore, the factors which enable or inhibit knowledge sharing among team members needs to be identified. Trust has been recognised as a prominent influencing factor on knowledge sharing and it is here where the focus of this literature review lies.  This paper offers a review of the literature on knowledge sharing in teams, presenting enabling and inhibiting factors, giving prominence to trust. Trust is investigated to include the role of trust in teams and in knowledge sharing and factors which enables and inhibits the development of trust.