Knowledge Management System Implementation for Digital Transformation in Higher Education: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Knowledge Management (KM) plays a strategic role in improving organizational performance and supporting digital transformation in higher education institutions. The rapid adoption of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and learning management systems has increased the need for effective Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) to facilitate knowledge creation, sharing, storage, dissemination, and utilization. However, only a limited number of universities have systematically implemented comprehensive KM policies and practices across all organizational units. This study aims to examine the implementation of KM in higher education institutions, identify key KM practices and challenges, and formulate recommendations for strengthening KMS to support sustainable digital transformation. A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Relevant articles indexed in the Scopus database and published between 2012 and 2026 were identified and retrieved using the Publish or Perish (PoP) application with the keywords “knowledge management” and “higher education.” The findings indicate that knowledge-sharing activities in universities are still predominantly conducted through face-to-face interactions, although digital platforms and collaborative technologies are increasingly being adopted. Most institutions have reached Level 3 (Standardization) of KM maturity, indicating that standardized KM processes have been established, but their integration across organizational units remains limited. The review further demonstrates that effective KM implementation contributes positively to organizational culture, knowledge sharing, collaboration, innovation, organizational learning, and evidence-based decision-making. These findings emphasize the importance of developing integrated KMS strategies, strengthening digital infrastructure, fostering a knowledge-sharing culture, and enhancing institutional capabilities to accelerate digital transformation and improve the sustainability, adaptability, and competitiveness of higher education institutions.