Title: Determinants of success and failure of knowledge transfer in information systems offshoring: a ranking-type Delphi study

Authors: Artur Strasser; Susanne Strahringer; Markus Westner

Addresses: Business Information Systems, Faculty of Business and Economics, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 10, 01069 Dresden, Germany ' Business Information Systems, Faculty of Business and Economics, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtzstr. 10, 01069 Dresden, Germany ' Faculty of Computer Sciences and Mathematics, OTH Regensburg, Galgenbergstr. 32, 93053 Regensburg, Germany

Abstract: The transfer of knowledge from client to service provider poses major challenges in information systems (IS) offshoring projects. Knowledge transfer directly affects IS offshoring success. Therefore, associated challenges must be overcome. Our study examines the determinants of success and failure of knowledge transfer in IS offshoring projects based on a ranking-type Delphi study. We questioned 32 experts from Germany, each with more than ten years of experience in near- or offshore initiatives to seek a consensus among them. We identified 19 success and 20 failure determinants. These determinants are ranked in order of importance using best-worst scaling. Aspects of closer cooperation are critical for effective knowledge transfer. This includes regular collaboration, willingness to help and support, and mutual trust. In contrast, critical determinants of failure are concerned with fears and fluctuation of human resources. Hidden ambiguities or knowledge gaps, an unwillingness and disability to share knowledge, and high fluctuation of human resources negatively impact knowledge transfer.

Keywords: best-worst scaling; BWS; Delphi; determinants of success; determinants of failure; information systems; IS; information systems offshoring; knowledge transfer; ranking-type Delphi.

DOI: 10.1504/IJITM.2023.130059

International Journal of Information Technology and Management, 2023 Vol.22 No.1/2, pp.32 - 56

Received: 15 Feb 2018
Accepted: 14 Jan 2019
Published online: 05 Apr 2023 *