Knowledge Management in Micro and Small Enterprises in Poland

Micro and small enterprises are the predominant category of enterprises in the modern market economy, accounting for more than 96% of all businesses. Their number notwithstanding, compared to small and medium-sized enterprises, organisations of this size rarely become the subject of separate research. A number of specific qualitative attributes of micro and small enterprises largely affect their operation. For instance, as company size decreases, their owners assume a unique role of becoming increasingly engaged in decision-making. As a consequence, the specific knowledge and experience that are available to the entrepreneur determine the quality of business. The knowledge and experience of employees are also of great significance. In a knowledge-based economy, managerial knowledge and skills are key factors for the competitive advantage and market success of all enterprises, no matter what size. New challenges for enterprises result additionally from internationalisation and globalisation. By trading their products internationally, companies can increase their market reach. However, to operate successfully on international markets, both entrepreneurs and their employees need additional knowledge and skills. The aim of the article is to present selected aspects of knowledge management in micro and small enterprises in Poland. The article employs statistical data published by Bank Pekao S.A. in its "Report on the situation of micro and small enterprises in 2010" and "Report on the situation of micro and small enterprises in 2016". The study utilises a sample of 6,853 and 6,903, respectively, Poland-based micro and small enterprises to gather data in 2010 and 2016. The analysis addresses multiple aspects of knowledge management in micro and small enterprises. The results of our own research are presented in tabular form using mathematical analysis tools to describe the structures and processes selected for research. Our research has helped identify differences in knowledge management in micro and small enterprises in Poland. It is worth noting that both business owners and employees are aware of their knowledge deficits and of the need to remedy them promptly to ensure that their enterprises can function effectively. Considering that the literature rarely addresses knowledge management in micro and small enterprises, research findings in the field provide valuable novel insights into the subject matter.