Why Do or Don’t You Provide Your Knowledge to an AI?

Abstract

This study examines the factors that influence individuals' readiness to share knowledge with artificial intelligence (AI) in organizational settings. With the increasing integration of AI into business processes, there are benefits such as increased operational efficiency and decision support. AI systems require the expertise of skilled employees to adequately support decisions and improve performance. However, providing knowledge and experience can also pose a risk to employees as it could jeopardize job security. Using an explorative approach, including literature review and qualitative interviews, this study identifies key motivators and barriers for providing knowledge to an AI. At the individual level, benefits such as learning opportunities encourage contribution. At the team-level, motivators include individual reliance on collective knowledge. Cultural norms such as reciprocity in sharing also play a role. However, there are barriers, including fear of job loss due to automation, interpersonal issues such as criticism, and distrust of both management and AI. Strategies to positively influence these factors include strengthening employability, transparent management communication and communities of practice to mutually share experiences with AI.

Keywords: Knowledge contribution, Knowledge sharing, Knowledge management system, Artificial Intelligence, Motivators, Barriers

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004636