Exploration of multi-layered knowledge sharing participation: the roles of perceived benefits and costs

Purpose This paper aims to explore participants’ perceived benefits and costs that influence the quantity and the quality of voluntary participation in knowledge networks in a resources-constrained economy. Design/methodology/approach A conceptual model of perceived benefits and costs of knowledge sharing is designed on the basis of literature. The influence of perceived benefit and cost on perceived quantity and quality of knowledge sharing are assessed on the basis of a survey with 283 participants in a business context within a resource-restrained economy. Findings The results indicate that reputation, reciprocity and altruism are perceived to benefit quantity of participation, whereas reciprocity, altruism and knowledge self-efficacy are perceived to benefit the quality of participation in knowledge networks. Effort and time have a negative impact on both quantity and quality of participation in knowledge sharing. Research limitations/implications This study provides insights into the factors that influence acceptance and use of knowledge networks and can thus influence business policies. Originality/value This exploratory study explores both perceived benefits and costs of participation in knowledge sharing in a resource-constrained economy.