A conceptual knowledge value chain model for construction organisations engaged in competitive tendering

Abstract

With the world heading towards a knowledge economy, knowledge is contemplated as a critical organisational resource that creates competitive advantage for construction organisations, especially when they engage in competitive tendering. Knowledge Value Chain Model (KVCM) is a viable mechanism that employs organisational knowledge for the organisations to acquire competitive advantage in competitive tendering. However, it has yet not been adopted although there is a dire requirement for it in the construction industry. Hence, this study developed a conceptual KVCM to facilitate the full exploitation of the knowledge available in a construction organisation so that it can function with competitive advantage during competitive tendering. This conceptual KVCM was developed by analysing the generic KVCMs mentioned in the extant literature. The analysis was followed by 15 expert interviews. It is recommended that to facilitate its pragmatic implementation, the KVCM be customised in the future as a Knowledge Value Chain (KVC) Framework by incorporating organisational characteristics.