Op weg naar succesvol IT outsourcing: Een dyadisch onderzoek naar kennismanagementvaardigheden bij MKB uitbesteders en MKB leveranciers.

Abstract

Outsourcing is seen as a powerful strategic tool to enhance a firm’s competitiveness. Especially information technology outsourcing (ITO), which has become increasingly important in recent years. Knowledge management plays a significant role in achieving a successful ITO. However, very few empirical research studies are available among small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and SMEs encounter unique knowledge management challenges. Since knowledge management in ITO within SME relationships is understudied, there is a need to elaborate on how knowledge management capabilities contribute to ITO success within SME relationships. Based on a literature review, technological, business, communication, and cultural knowledge management capabilities are identified. Using a multiple-holistic case study approach, the presence and relevance of the capabilities in five SME relationships are examined, with a focus on the outsourcing of data analytics. The capabilities are present in each relationship, although not all knowledge management capabilities are equally essential for both parties. The communication capability, which is facilitated by the cultural capability, ensures synergy between the outsourcer and the vendor, enabling the vendor to understand the outsourcers’ technology and business, which is crucial for ITO success. The capabilities contribute to a successful ITO by developing an optimal solution that aligns with client requirements.

Date of Award	25 Jun 2023
Original language	Dutch
Supervisor	Lianne Cuijpers (Examiner) & Ben Roelens (Co-assessor)