Harnessing Knowledge Management and E-Business Integration to Drive Competitive Advantage in MSMEs: A Post-Pandemic Perspective

Abstract

This study examines how Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can harness the integration of knowledge management (KM) and e-business to achieve competitive advantage in the post-pandemic era. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated digital transformation and exposed the critical need for MSMEs to adapt their internal knowledge processes alongside external digital strategies to survive and thrive. The research aims to explore the interplay between KM practices and e-business adoption in MSMEs, focusing on their combined impact on resilience, innovation, and market competitiveness. Employing a qualitative approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and document analysis from selected MSMEs in West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Thematic analysis revealed that informal knowledge sharing, leadership commitment, and strategic alignment between knowledge and digital tools significantly enhance MSMEs’ adaptability and customer engagement. The study highlights that effective integration rather than isolated digital adoption or KM efforts drives dynamic capabilities critical for navigating post-pandemic challenges. This research contributes to the literature by bridging KM and e-business domains, providing practical insights for MSME leaders and policymakers on fostering integrated strategies to strengthen competitiveness in uncertain environments. The findings emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to knowledge and technology management for sustainable growth in digital economies.