Enhancing Business Efficiency and Digitization Through Digital Knowledge Management in Select Chinese Universities

This research investigates how Digital Knowledge Management (DKM) systems are used in Chinese universities to improve business efficiency and digitization for daily university operations. This study was conducted to identify the key challenges of adoption of DKMs and assess the impact of DKM on operational efficiency, cost efficiency, administrative effectiveness, digitisation, sharing knowledge, collaboration and data to decision-making implications. Basing on the theoretical underpinnings in the KBV (Knowledge-Based View), SECI Model, and TOE (Technology-Organization-Environment) framework, the research used a mixed methods approach, employing quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. Results show that barriers to implementing DKM such as technological constraints, organizational resistance, and environmental limitations are very common. Nevertheless, DKM systems adoption is catalyzing the pace of digitizing digital resource management, smart campus initiatives, and online learning platforms. Moreover, DKM systems have a transforming influence on business process efficiency, for instance, workflows, distribution of resources, and administrative processes. They also promote a culture of knowledge exchange and collaboration, eroding silos and encouraging inter-disciplinary interaction. In addition, DKM systems support evidence-based decision-making with access to current, reliable, and validated information, enabling more effective strategic planning and allocation of resources. The research findings suggest that DKM is necessary for promoting innovation, effectiveness, and sustainability in the organization of higher education. Recommendations include capacity building, technical support, and utilization of advanced analytics software. Future work is encouraged to include a broader geographical range, a discussion of the influence of new technologies, and efforts to overcome digital equity issues in underprivileged areas. Such results offer implications for using DKM systems to promote the digitization and efficiency of universities.