Drivers of knowledge transfer for succession in family business: a perspective article

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to identify various factors that have driven the knowledge transfer process for succession purposes in family business since the 1920s and discuss their implications for advancing effective succession planning in this business sector for the next 100 years.Design/methodology/approachThe paper reviews and synthesizes current research on knowledge transfer drivers in family business from 1923 to 2023 and draws out future perspectives on what will influence the knowledge-transferring process in the next 100 years.FindingsTrust, organizational culture and environmental factors such as the need to create competitive advantages, technological advancement and new sources of knowledge have been identified as the most prominent drivers of knowledge transfer for effective succession in family business throughout the 1920–2020s. In the future, the ability to create value, the internationalization process and business innovations will play an essential role in knowledge-sharing among family and non-family members during succession.Originality/valueThe paper provides a review of past development and a future perspective on factors enhancing the effectiveness of knowledge transfer for succession in family firms.