Chapter 6: Big Data, Knowledge Sharing, and the Innovation Process: A Systematic Literature Review

The purpose of this chapter is to investigate how big data influences the diffusion of knowledge in firms and how it influences the firms’ innovation process. The chapter identifies gaps that exist in the current literature on the topic. This study is conducted by using a qualitative methodology. PRISMA methodology is used to carry out a systematic literature review. The results shown in this study indicate the positive influence that technology has on knowledge sharing and innovation and on the other hand how good management of knowledge can benefit small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The limitation of this study is related to the methodology, whereas it is considered that a quantitative methodology can be incorporated into the other research resources. The chapter’s aim is to fill a gap in the current literature and to be a new starting point for scholars and managers. Through this work, managers can better understand how to improve the innovation process through knowledge sharing in their organizations. The originality of the present study represents a first step in understanding the mechanisms of knowledge sharing within firms, how it supports the innovation process, and what role big data plays in this context.