Knowledge Sharing and Protection Mechanisms in Hybrid and Remote Work Settings

Organizations can increase their competitive advantage by sharing knowledge. On the other hand, mechanisms are needed to protect this knowledge from leaking. Although there is a growing body research on hybrid and remote working, few studies have looked at the adoption of knowledge protection (KP) mechanisms in these work models. This study seeks to address this gap by analysing KP and knowledge sharing (KS) mechanisms in hybrid and remote work environments in information technology (IT) companies. The research method adopted was qualitative, exploratory, and cross-sectional, with data being collected through twenty semi-structured interviews conducted with professionals working in either hybrid or remote environments in IT companies. Regarding the interviewees’ characteristics, the male-female ratio was 60% - 40%, with an average age of 36 years, average time in the same company of 4.5 years, and around 2.5 years in the same position. The content analysis technique was adopted in the data analysis. As there is no standardization of days and times in the hybrid system, KS is hampered by the lack of face-to-face interaction between employees. The KS mechanisms mentioned are training, formal meetings, mentoring, and content available on the organizational intranet or platforms, among others. Not all organizations see KP as being important, and some even allow employees to use their own equipment, which may be potentially damaging for the company. This article presents theoretical contributions, such as the identification of sharing and protection mechanisms used in the hybrid and remote environments, and practical contributions, such as a list of mechanisms that can be used by companies. This research also highlights opportunities for future research, such as the identification and analysis of mechanisms in other segments of the economy, as well as research on the role of organizational culture in protecting knowledge.