Impact of object manipulation, customization and social loafing on competencies management in 3D Virtual Worlds

3D Virtual Worlds (VW) are rich and promising collaboration tools limitedly introduced to support competence management, yet, extensively used to enhance knowledge sharing (KS) and support knowledge application (KA). Nevertheless, KS and KA represent a challenging medium to leverage individual as well as organization’s competencies. Characterized by a realistic visual dimension in representing work environment and a growing capacity of simulation, 3D platforms facilitate and value competence formation. Present study analyzes role of 3D VW technology unique characteristics (i.e. object manipulation and avatar and 3D environment customization) and specific personal character social loafing, on competencies acquisition. Individual performance and organizational performance were measured to assess individual and organizational competences. Answers from 144 users of 3D VWs were analyzed. Results show that social loafing has significant negative effect on knowledge sharing. Customization and object manipulation have significant, yet small moderating effect on 3D VW technology use and knowledge sharing. KS subsequent effect on KA, individual and organizational competencies are significant. Limitations and new research directions are presented.