Key Factors of Knowledge Management for Digital Transformation in Medium-Sized Manufacturing Companies in Pichincha, Ecuador

The objective of this research is to identify the key factors of knowledge management (KM) that drive digital transformation (DT) in the manufacturing industry, and to present the challenges faced by this sector. The research uses a quantitative methodological approach. First, a survey was conducted in 142 medium-sized manufacturing companies in Pichincha, Ecuador, to assess the relevance of the factors that are part of KM. Then, these factors were compared with those necessary for organizations to digitally transform, then the most relevant factors for digital transformation are identified, and finally the challenges were raised. The results indicate that the most important challenges are having a DT-focused organizational culture, working with robust and flexible technologies, having DT-focused policies and strategies, developing omnidirectional communication, changing to a customer-focused organizational structure, strengthening employee capabilities, and implementing an incentive system.