Knowledge management in production logistics reorganisation processes

Purpose: the purpose of this paper is to understand how newly emerging knowledge is managed in companies undergoing reorganisation within the scope of production logistics. Four elements of the knowledge management process are examined and an attempt is made to diagnose the place and nature of the problems that occur in this process. Design/methodology/approach: the study used a qualitative method. In-depth interviews were conducted in 5 companies with 13 middle and senior managers who were involved in reorganisation processes. The study spanned the period from January to June 2024. Findings: the study shows that the least effective stage is the distribution (transfer) of knowledge to production employees. The biggest problem is the internalisation of knowledge at the lowest levels by employees at individual workstations. Research limitations/implications: the study was conducted among small and medium-sized enterprises and therefore does not take into account the perspective of large companies. It also only addresses knowledge management in the context of production logistics reorganisation and therefore does not focus on other types of reorganisation. Practical implications: understanding the essence of knowledge management is the basis of a successful reorganisation process. Knowledge of its phases and awareness of the shortcomings in the process in small and medium-sized enterprises make it possible to carry it out in a more organised and sustainable way. Social implications: the study may contribute to an increased awareness of reorganisation processes in enterprises and thus to their effectiveness and efficiency. This is then likely to improve the competitiveness of enterprises. Originality/value: this study is part of the trend in the research on knowledge management. Its uniqueness consists in presenting knowledge management in the specific conditions created by the reorganisation process in the area of production logistics. In doing so, it is enriched by a diagnosis of the source of possible failures and an evaluation of the process by the people responsible for the initiation and execution of the process. Keywords: knowledge management, reorganisation, production logistics. Category of the paper: research paper.