ABSTRACT
The informal communication networks in organizations are often emphasized as facilitating knowledge transfer. However, formal work-flow networks also contribute significantly to knowledge transfer, and perhaps even more so. This is particularly the case when knowledge is transferred between units within a firm. Indeed, formal work-flow and informal communication networks appear to be synergetic; formal work-flow networks may be the basis on which informal communication networks can form. This suggests that knowledge transfer effects, that in previous studies were attributed to the informal communication network, may in fact be a consequence of the prior existence of a formal work-flow network.
