Conceptualizing knowledge use: A theoretical framework and empirical study

The paper develops a theoretical framework to conceptualize knowledge use, a frequently utilized dependent variable in knowledge management research. The model identifies innovative use, conceptual use, and affective use as three dimensions of the knowledge use construct which is theorized to be part of a nomological network that includes knowledge quality and procedural justice as two antecedents to knowledge use. This conceptualization is empirically examined through a matched-pair survey study. Findings support the theoretical framework at both the measurement and the structural levels. Implications for KM researchers are discussed.