AN EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS OF THE USE OF SOCIAL NETWORKS ON THE INTERNET AS A TOOL FOR KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Social interaction between individuals and companies has increased by means of the use of technology. However, little is known about how this interaction generates knowledge, creates new ideas and triggers innovation in enterprises. This raises a question: can the use of social networking technologies promote effective knowledge management within firms? In order to answer this question, we analyzed three small software development companies in the Valley of Toluca in Mexico, using qualitative research through in-depth interviews, and found several answers. After a literature review of previous research in the field, we chose seven variables (knowledge, information, innovation, impact of work with social networks, monitoring technology and organizational learning) to develop a questionnaire that was used to conduct the interviews that were applied to managers. We found that social networks affect technological knowledge construction, and are used to promote business, find employees and generate new ideas, among other findings.