Factors Contributing to Knowledge Sharing and Communications in a Large Virtual Work Group

View Sample PDF

Author(s): Olivia Ernst Neece (Claremont Graduate University, USA)
Copyright: 2004
Pages: 36
Source title: Virtual Teams: Projects, Protocols and Processes
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): David Pauleen (Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-59140-166-7.ch012

Keywords: Information Science Reference / Media & Communications / Social Computing / Virtual Communities & Virtual Reality

Purchase

View on the publisher's website for pricing and purchasing information.

Abstract

In this chapter, we discuss an eight-factor process model of large virtual groups. A team has been defined as a small group of people that work very closely on a project or process. We define a large work group as a larger group of people who are more loosely connected to one another than a team by a shared work process, project, or strategic goal. The eight factors are organizational support and purpose; egalitarian structure; team culture, trust, collaboration, and relationships; people—skills, expertise, and capabilities; motivation and rewards; communication processes; communication tools; and knowledge sharing. These factors to a greater or lesser degree have been shown to contribute to the effectiveness of communication in a large virtual work group during a two-phase study at Nortel Networks. Qualitative and quantitative results of this study are presented in the chapter. We discuss issues related to communication and knowledge sharing in the chapter as well as recommendations for successful organization and communication in large work groups.

The IRMA Community

Research IRM

Factors Contributing to Knowledge Sharing and Communications in a Large Virtual Work Group

Purchase

Abstract

Related Content

IRMA Sponsors