Abstract:
This study was designed to determine the effective internal communication methods and media for knowledge transfer in the manufacturing industry. The research involved the collection of quantitative data through non-probability, convenience sampling. The data was collected using survey questionnaires at three companies in the manufacturing industry namely; Exxaro FerroAlloys, Tubatse Chrome and Amalgamated Beverage Industries. The data was analysed using descriptive and univariate statistical techniques. The study showed that push communication methods and high-media rich communication is preferred for transferring information/explicit knowledge in the manufacturing industry. The most preferred communication methods (top three) for information/explicit knowledge transfer were email followed by newsletters and compulsory meetings. The importance of media richness in transferring tacit knowledge was shown. The study found that High-media rich communication, especially face-to-face, was preferred to transfer and share tacit knowledge. These findings were discussed in the context of existing literature and a number of recommendations were made. Copyright
