Effective internal communication methods and media for knowledge transfer in the manufacturing industry

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