Unlocking synergy of knowledge in the digital era: inter-team collaboration, network position, and knowledge creation

Purpose The purpose of this research is to explore how knowledge creation is facilitated in the digital era, particularly focusing on the rapid development of online collaborative office software. This study aims to understand the impact of inter-team collaboration on knowledge creation within a high-technology company, using Chinese company objective data for in-depth research. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a network perspective and in-depth analysis of 243 Chinese high-tech teams, applying knowledge-based and social capital theories to examine inter-team collaboration’s impact on knowledge creation and the moderating roles of network positions. Findings This research finds a positive association between inter-team collaboration and higher levels of knowledge creation, which includes knowledge acquisition, sharing and transfer. Evidence is provided that both focal brokerage and neighbor centrality play significant moderating roles in the relationship between inter-team collaboration and knowledge creation. Originality/value The study’s originality lies in offering a novel perspective on how to leverage the network positions of teams (i.e. focal brokerage and neighbor centrality simultaneously) to enhance knowledge creation within organizations, particularly in the context of the digital era and the use of online collaborative tools. Besides, it develops a middle-up-down model that is designed to unlock the synergy of knowledge creation based on a team-centric approach.