Knowledge transfer and brokering in a public sector digital transformation project

In this paper, we investigate knowledge transfer and knowledge brokering in a public sector digital transformation project. Our empirical setting is represented by the Supreme Court of Cassation in Italy, which has carried out a project of digital transformation related to the introduction of online civil trials (processo civile telematico). In particular, we analysed how researchers acted as knowledge brokers to facilitate the knowledge transfer process in the team. We identified three main functions of knowledge brokers that helped to promote knowledge transfer between team members: facilitating the alignment of different languages and lenses using visualising tools; connecting separated know-how; and sustaining engagement towards a successful outcome of the project.