Internal social networks and knowledge management in Morocco: a critical review of the literature and research perspectives

Abstract

This article offers a narrative review of the literature dedicated to the use of Internal Social Networks (ISNs) in Knowledge Management (KM), with a particular focus on the Moroccan context. Drawing on a body of both theoretical and empirical studies, from national and international sources, the analysis identifies the factors that facilitate the integration of ISNs within organisations, as well as the specific obstacles encountered in culturally hierarchical environments. The findings reveal that while ISNs are widely adopted in industrialised countries to catalyse organisational innovation, their uptake in Morocco remains limited, hindered by cultural resistance, vertical organisational structures, and technological shortcomings. The article highlights the scarcity of context-specific empirical research and underscores the absence of a theoretical framework tailored to local dynamics. Based on this analysis, recommendations are made to encourage the adoption of ISNs, particularly through the development of a more collaborative organisational culture, technological investment, and the formulation of contextualised theoretical models. Finally, the study proposes a conceptual framework intended to guide future empirical research on the relationship between ISNs and knowledge management performance in Morocco.

JEL Classification: D83

Paper type: Theoretical Research