Knowledge sharing as a determinant of success in information systems project teams

Purpose Knowledge sharing is recognized as a critical factor for success in knowledge-intensive environments and project-based work. This study aims to advance understanding of how knowledge sharing relates to project success by proposing and empirically validating a model that explicates its indirect effects through key knowledge management mechanisms. Design/methodology/approach The theoretical model was empirically tested using survey data collected from master’s degree students in the Information Systems (IS) field working in collaborative, project-based teams within an academic project management context. This setting provides a controlled yet knowledge-intensive environment. Findings The results show that knowledge sharing is not directly associated with project success. Instead, its association with project success is fully mediated by expertise integration and absorptive capability, which emerge as key drivers of project success in collaborative IS project teams. In addition, knowledge location and knowledge credibility are positively associated with knowledge sharing, whereas knowledge differentiation is not significantly associated. Originality/value This study develops and validates a theoretically grounded model that integrates and empirically confirms the indirect role of knowledge sharing in project success. By focusing on the underlying mechanisms linking knowledge sharing to project results, the findings contribute to knowledge management and IS project research and offer insights relevant to both educational and organizational project-based contexts, particularly those involving early-career IS professionals.