In a quest of exploring predictors of knowledge management in universities

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the predictors of knowledge management (KM) in the context of educational institutions, particularly in universities. Design/methodology/approach This study applied the survey methods to identify the predictors of KM in the context of a university. The self-developed research tools were used to collect data from the 445 academic staff of four different universities in Nepal. Factor analysis was applied to identify the predictors of KM. Findings The factor analysis explored seven predictors of KM processes, i.e. knowledge utilization, acquisition, generation, dissemination, creation, transfer and presentation. The finding of the research showed that the predictors of KM are contextual and depend upon the practices of the faculty members of higher educational institutions (HEIs). It further showed that knowledge utilization is a way of solving problems while knowledge can be acquired through interaction. The knowledge can be generated through involvement within professional networks and the trend of dissemination of knowledge depends on the usage of social medial. The role of e-portal is vital to transfer knowledge, where the knowledge can be created through participation in conferences and conduction of academic projects. The knowledge presentation skill helps to enhance the personal capacity in academia. Research limitations/implications This study was carried out based on the individual perception of the faculty members of four different universities in Nepal. The current status of KM and predictors of KM differ, and they are determined by contextual practices due to geographical and cultural differences. Originality/value In a country like Nepal, the concept of KM is in an emerging stage, and this is applied to some financial institutions. In this context, this paper carried out the predictors of KM in the context of HEIs to enhance the intellectual capital of faculty members.