Determinants of success and failure of knowledge transfer in information systems offshoring: a ranking-type Delphi study

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Abstract

The transfer of knowledge from client to service provider poses major challenges in information systems (IS) offshoring projects. Knowledge transfer directly affects IS offshoring success. Therefore, associated challenges must be overcome. Our study examines the determinants of success and failure of knowledge transfer in IS offshoring projects based on a ranking-type Delphi study. We questioned 32 experts from Germany, each with more than ten years of experience in near- or offshore initiatives to seek a consensus among them. We identified 19 success and 20 failure determinants. These determinants are ranked in order of importance using best-worst scaling. Aspects of closer cooperation are critical for effective knowledge transfer. This includes regular collaboration, willingness to help and support, and mutual trust. In contrast, critical determinants of failure are concerned with fears and fluctuation of human resources. Hidden ambiguities or knowledge gaps, an unwillingness and disability to share knowledge, and high fluctuation of human resources negatively impact knowledge transfer.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)32-56
Number of pages25
Journal International journal of information technology and management : IJITM
Volume22
Issue number1/2
Publication statusPublished - 5 Apr 2023
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 85153845821
ORCID /0000-0002-9465-9679/work/142250669

Keywords

Research priority areas of TU Dresden

DFG Classification of Subject Areas according to Review Boards

Keywords

  • best-worst scaling, BWS, Delphi, determinants of failure, determinants of success, information systems, information systems offshoring, IS, knowledge transfer, ranking-type Delphi

Library keywords