channels of information, including both active and passive
information seeking, and information use’. McAdam and
Reid (2001) view the construction and creation of knowledge
as essential components of knowledge management. Under
the broad heading of organizational knowledge, learning is
a third dimension, which involves the interpretation of
information through a continuous dialogue between tacit
and explicit knowledge (Nonaka, 1994).
The researchers investigated knowledge acquisition and
its implications for improving the provision and use of
information. The following research objectives are proposed:
• to identify the ambitions of SMTE proprietors and how
these characteristics influence their business practices,
• to assess how the motives of proprietors influence their use
of information,
• to understand the information that is required and sought
by SMTEs,
• to understand the channels and processes that are used by
SMTEs to gather information,
• to identify issues associated with the learning and training
practices of SMTEs, and
• to recommend alternative approaches for disseminating
information.
The first part of the paper identifies a gap in the literature
and examines the established SMTE practices to gathering
information and developing knowledge. The applicable
research method and study is then outlined. Finally, the data
and results are analysed, with recommendations provided for
the benefit of future researchers.