Knowledge sharing and boundary conditions within the virtual community: an examination of free and open-source software communities

Abstract. This paper examines knowledge-sharing practices among professionals in the virtual community. It emphasizes the concept of knowledge boundaries and explores the mechanism of knowledge sharing across boundaries within the free and open-source software community. By applying Bona Fide Group Theory from a communication perspective, this research identified several key contextual and social factors that impact boundary conditions and knowledge sharing practice. The findings explain the mechanism of interdependence and the impact of contextual and social factors that impact knowledge sharing, an area that has not been studied thoroughly due to its unique nature and emerging complexity of virtual communities. It offers fresh insights into task interdependence and knowledge sharing across the pragmatic boundary with a virtual community, particularly given the advancement of AI technology which reshapes the novelty of knowledge boundary. This research findings offer several important practical implications. First, it highlights the important communication mechanism and its impact on members’ commitment to the community. Second, it suggests the need to establish communication protocols with effective tools to accommodate the novelty of boundaries. Third, developing a comprehensive understanding of permeate boundaries helps community members to better collaborate and engage in knowledge-sharing practices. Finally, it suggests establishing sustainable practices and interactions within the virtual community and embracing a positive community culture.