Developing a Knowledge Management Model for Intergenerational Entrepreneurs in Science and Technology Parks
Keywords:
Knowledge Management, Intergenerational Entrepreneurs, Science and Technology Parks, Knowledge Transfer, Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, Innovation, Intergenerational LearningAbstract
Objective: This study aimed to develop a comprehensive knowledge management model for intergenerational entrepreneurs operating within science and technology parks.
Methods and Materials: This applied study employed a qualitative and exploratory design using thematic analysis. The participants consisted of experts in knowledge management, entrepreneurship, innovation, science and technology parks, and knowledge-based firms. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on relevant academic expertise and executive experience. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews conducted face-to-face and online. Interviews lasted approximately 45–90 minutes and continued until theoretical saturation was achieved with 16 participants. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed through repeated reading, extraction of meaning units, coding, classification of basic codes into constituent codes, and identification of organizing and overarching themes. Credibility was enhanced through expert participant selection, diversity of perspectives, systematic data analysis, complete transcription, and continuation of data collection until theoretical saturation.
Findings: The thematic analysis identified eight overarching dimensions of intergenerational entrepreneurs’ knowledge management: human and relational foundations of intergenerational knowledge management; knowledge-oriented and innovative organizational culture; knowledge leadership and governance in the entrepreneurial ecosystem; management and transfer of entrepreneurs’ experiential knowledge; structural and network infrastructures for knowledge management; intergenerational synergy in innovation and technology development; a smart ecosystem for learning and innovation; and barriers and challenges to intergenerational knowledge management. The findings demonstrated that effective intergenerational knowledge management depends on reciprocal learning, intergenerational trust, knowledge sharing, supportive leadership, tacit knowledge transfer, experience documentation, flexible organizational structures, knowledge networking, integration of managerial experience with technological expertise, and digital knowledge management. Conversely, unhealthy competition, knowledge hiding, generational conflict, and resistance to change were identified as major barriers.
Conclusion: Intergenerational knowledge management in science and technology parks is a multidimensional and ecosystem-based process in which relational, cultural, managerial, structural, technological, and experiential mechanisms interact. The proposed model suggests that sustainable innovation can be strengthened by integrating the accumulated managerial experience of older entrepreneurs with the technological agility and creativity of younger generations while simultaneously reducing barriers to knowledge sharing.
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