Knowledge contribution in problem solving virtual communities: The mediating role of individual motivations

Jie Yu, Zhenhui Jiang, Hock Chuan Chan

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

24 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Increasing knowledge contribution in problem solving virtual communities (PSVCs) is a long-pursued question in the knowledge management arena for both researchers and practitioners. In view of various mechanisms developed in hopes of encouraging more active participations, we proposed a motivational model for PSVC contributions. Drawn on functional motivation theory and expectancy-value theory, we highlight the mediating role of individual motivations in the relationships between characteristics of PSVCs and knowledge contribution intention. By taking both self-interest and public-good perspectives, we identify eight individual motivations to knowledge contribution in the context of PSVCs. They are active learning, self-enhancement, reciprocity, reputation, enjoyment of helping others, self-protection, moral obligation and advancement of virtual community motive. Besides, we also identify four major mechanisms in PSVCs that are associated with members' motivations: codification, identity management, virtual community norms and communication methods.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSIGMIS-CPR 2007 - Proceedings of the 2007 ACM SIGMIS CPR Conference
Subtitle of host publicationThe Global Information Technology Workforce
Pages144-152
Number of pages9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2007
Externally publishedYes
Event45th Annual Computer Personnel Research Conference, ACM SIGMIS CPR 2007 - Saint Louis, MO, United States
Duration: 19 Apr 200721 Apr 2007

Publication series

NameSIGMIS-CPR 2007 - Proceedings of the 2007 ACM SIGMIS CPR Conference: The Global Information Technology Workforce

Conference

Conference45th Annual Computer Personnel Research Conference, ACM SIGMIS CPR 2007
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySaint Louis, MO
Period19/04/0721/04/07

Keywords

  • Expectancy-value theory
  • Functional motivation theory
  • Individual motivation
  • Knowledge contribution
  • Mechanisms
  • Virtual community

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Information Systems
  • Software
  • Information Systems and Management

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