Characterising the discourse on organisational knowledge and virtual work: a mixed methods analysis with Colombian professionals

Purpose The debate surrounding organisational knowledge and virtual work environments centres on three key dimensions: the needs of stakeholders, the implementation of the virtual work strategy and the information technology systems that support this process. Design/methodology/approach Organisational knowledge in virtual work environments has been discussed for over a decade. However, the perspectives of professionals working under this arrangement, which has become popular in the wake of the pandemic, have been largely overlooked in discussions. Accordingly, the current discourse on virtual work from the perspective of management professionals is sought to be characterised, focusing specifically on the challenges of knowledge management. Findings The debate around organisational knowledge and virtual work environments is centred on three key dimensions. These dimensions include the needs of stakeholders, the implementation of the virtual work strategy and the information technology systems that support the process. Originality/value Technological tools and strategic decision-making support the needs of individuals, businesses and governments, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of work in contemporary settings. These work models must adapt to diverse perspectives, especially those of professionals operating in virtual environments. Grounded in the Knowledge-Based View and theories of Virtual Team Effectiveness, the study proposes a hybrid framework that reveals how digital affordances reshape social capital and knowledge flows in SME ecosystems. Findings from a bibliometric analysis, content analysis and practitioner interviews highlight the mediating roles of trust, camaraderie and collaborative technologies, offering both theoretical and practical implications.