Knowledge management practices within a collaborative R&D project : Case study of a firm in a cluster of railway industry

Purpose – This paper aims to analyze the mechanisms of knowledge capitalization, sharing and creation through the information systems between actors of a collaborative R&D project within a cluster. Design/methodology/approach – Qualitative approach based on case study mobilizing the following research tools: semi-structured interviews, documentary study and direct observation. Findings – Better understanding of the dynamics of knowledge capitalization, sharing and creation in firms via the R&D projects within clusters. Practical implications – The case study may help companies to better manage its R&D projects through an optimization of KM practices. This can increase their innovative capacity through improved understanding of factors that can stimulate or inhibit knowledge capitalization, sharing and creation. Originality/value – The theoretical framework, especially the SECI model and the KBV approach seems to be useful to improve the understanding of KM practices in the context of collaborative R&D projects. This understanding may allow developments at the companies' ability to innovate through knowledge creation.