The Yin-Yang dialectical systems theory of knowledge creation proposed an orthodox, five-dimension process model. This model helps decipher profound paradoxical thinking in human mental programming, which addresses the limitations of commonly used organizational knowledge creation theory in the digital era, particularly in cross-cultural contexts. Given that the new model has yet to undergo empirical validation, this study aims to pave the way for its further operationalization by assessing the rationality and applicability of its five-dimension model, as well as developing an initial item pool that can measure the various dimensions of the organizational knowledge creation processes.
An open-ended questionnaire survey was conducted with 87 participants recruited through snowball sampling. Utilizing the grounded theory approach, the collected text data was coded to generate initial items measuring the five dimensions of knowledge creation, adhering to the inductive scale development methodology. Additionally, a content adequacy test was employed to verify the content validity of these items, ensuring their alignment with the theoretical framework and practical relevance.
The results of open coding and axial coding reveal the good fit of the five-dimension model to the practice of knowledge creation within organizations. Consequently, a total of 32 measuring items were generated. The content validity test facilitated further refinement of the wording of some items that did not meet the required standards, ultimately leading to the formation of an initial item pool that serves as a foundation for the future development of scale for organizational knowledge creation.
This study contributes to the field by generating initial item pool based on a newly proposed conceptual model, making a significant step forward in the development of a comprehensive measurement for knowledge creation. This study not only establishes an empirical foundation for future research, but also enhances and advances the yin-yang dialectical system theory of knowledge creation, offering novel insights into the domain of knowledge management and fostering a deeper understanding of the processes involved in organizational knowledge creation.
