« A knowledge management approach to the Libyan Public Procurement of construction Projects »

This study delves into the problem of inefficiencies in public procurement processes for construction projects in Libya with the aim of recommending the adoption and use of KM to address the inherent challenges, and improve the efficiency of public procurement processes.
Using a mixed methods research design, the research collected quantitative data through surveys and qualitative data using in-depth interviews with site engineers, project managers, and the top current and former leaders of key organizations that are responsible for the procurement of public construction projects in Libya. The research established that there is no systematic KM practice in Libya; however, there are unstructured knowledge sharing initiatives that could not be considered as effective KM but they form the basis for adoption of KM practice. The research found that the knowledge sharing culture is low in Libya, and there is use of technology in running of day-to-day operations, but it is not directed towards KM practice. The study established that there are challenges in the procurement processes and that there is no systematic way of handling knowledge
such as lessons learned, best practices, etc. Therefore, practitioners are always re-inventing the wheel. To address these inefficiencies, the research recommended the adoption of KM practice, promoting a culture of knowledge sharing, creating a centralized, full-fledged procurement department for all public construction projects in Libya, hiring professionals trained in public procurement, training and developing existing staff, and using modern technologies to enhance efficiency in the procurement process. Based on the research findings, the research recommends a six-step (CCOISA) pilot KM model that could help in collaborating, capturing, organizing,
integrating, storing, and applying knowledge based on the prevailing conditions and circumstances in Libya. The model serves as the roadmap for practitioners to adopt KM practice and address the challenge of inefficiency in the Libyan public procurement. The research findings have helped to start a discussion in Libya and other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa about the importance of KM practice in public procurement. The research recommends that future research should focus on the scalability of the research to other sectors of the economy and the barriers to successful implementation of KM practice, as well as the legal and ethical concerns that may arise upon implementation of the recommended KM model.