Sharing knowledge through social media platforms: critical system characteristics for knowledge workers

Purpose This study aims to assess the critical characteristics of the social media platform (SMP) on knowledge sharing behaviour from knowledge workers’ perspective. This study examines the critical SMP characteristics from both knowledge management and information security viewpoints. Specifically, the study analyses the impact of reach, depth, richness, aggregation, confidentiality, integrity and availability characteristics of SMP on knowledge sharing behaviour. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from knowledge workers in major institutions in a developing country through an online questionnaire. The data were analysed and hypotheses were tested using partial least squares analysis methodology with SmartPLS 4.0 software. Findings This study found that SMP richness and confidentiality significantly affect knowledge sharing behaviour. Further analysis also indicated that SMP richness and confidentiality increase implicit knowledge sharing, whereas SMP reach increases explicit knowledge sharing. Originality/value SMPs are currently one of the most widely used technologies for fostering formal and informal knowledge sharing among knowledge workers and can be used as tools for remote work and to accelerate digital transformation. Researchers predict that remote work will become increasingly common in the future. However, the literature indicates that organizations have concerns about the use of SMPs in the workplace as SMPs can pose serious knowledge and security threats that could further complicate knowledge sharing in organizations. Understanding the characteristics of SMPs that impact knowledge workers’ use of the platform will help organizations optimize its effectiveness for the knowledge sharing process and mitigate threats while seizing opportunities.