Let’s Ask the Employees: A Survey on the Current State of Knowledge Management Practices in the Italian Public Sector

As the complexity of public service delivery increases alongside rapid technological evolution, this study aims to understand how knowledge is created, shared, utilized, and preserved within public sector organizations. In doing so, it contributes to a more profound understanding of the intricate dynamics of these organizations, addressing a notable gap in empirical research within this area. Drawing on a quantitative survey distributed among 84 employees working in Italian public sector organizations, this study investigates the current state of knowledge management practices and how well they are integrated into operational plans and organizational culture. The results reveal a strong public employee awareness of knowledge as a vital organizational asset and underscore the urgency of integrating KM strategies to meet the needs of an era characterized by increased competition and expectations. However, challenges remain, particularly in promoting an organizational culture that fosters knowledge sharing and overcomes structural barriers to the free flow of information.