Evaluation of the knowledge management maturity at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and solutions to its improvement

Abstract

Background: Knowledge is an important factor in improving and developing services and managing this intangible asset has received a lot of attention. this study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the maturity of knowledge management and providing solutions for its enhancement at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS). Methods: This quantitative-qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022. 210 experts of knowledge management completed the standard evaluation tool for knowledge management maturity. Semi-structured interviews were done with ten managers. Descriptive statistics in Excel 2013 were used to analyze the quantitative data; framework analysis was also used for qualitative data analysis. Results: The maturity of knowledge management was found to be at level 3 (expansion) with a score of 135.2. The highest and lowest scores were related to the dimensions of technology (21.6) and leadership of knowledge management (18.44), respectively. The solutions for collaborative management, cultural development, implementation of motivational system, regulations and executive guidelines in the leadership dimension, training and empowerment of managers and employees, merit-based selection and appointment, quantitative and qualitative development of information technology infrastructure in the technology dimension, and identification, creation, storage, sharing and use of knowledge processes in the process dimension were identified. Conclusions: The solutions presented in this study can be used to organize the stages of maturity, planning and policymaking in the field of knowledge management.