Maryam Alavi, Dorothy Leidner, Review: Knowledge Management and Knowledge Management Systems: Conceptual Foundations and Research Issues, MISQ, 25(1), pp107-136, March 2001
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Jungpil Hahn, Mani Subramani, A framework of knowledge management systems: Issues and challenges for theory and practice,
Abstract
As the basis of value creation increasingly depends on the leverage of the intangible assets of firms, knowledge management systems (KMS) are emerging as powerful sources of competitive advantage. However, the general recognition of the importance of such systems seems to be accompanied by a technology-induced drive to implement systems with inadequate consideration of the fundamental knowledge problems that the KMS are likely to solve. This paper contributes to the stream of research on knowledge management systems by proposing an inductively developed framework for this important class of information systems, classifying KMS based on the locus of the knowledge and the a priori structuring of contents. This framework provides a means to explore issues related to KMS and unifying dimensions underlying different types of KMS. The contingencies that we discuss the size and diversity of networks, the maintenance of knowledge flows and the long term effects of the use of KMS provide a window into work in a number of reference disciplines that would enrich the utility of KMS and also open up fruitful areas for future research.
Ikujiro Nonaka, A Dynamic Theory of Organizational Knowledge Creation, Organization Science, 5(1), Feb 1994, pp 14-37
Abstract
This paper proposes a paradigm for managing the dynamic aspects of organizational knowledge creating processes. Its central theme is that organizational knowledge is created through a continuous dialogue between tacit and explicit knowledge. The nature of this dialogue is examined and four patterns of interaction involving tacit and explicit knowledge are identified. It is argued that while new knowledge is developed by individuals, organisations play a critical role in articulating and amplifying that knowledge. A theoretical framework is developed which provides an analytical perspective on the constituent dimensions of knowledge creation. This framework is then applied in two operational models for facilitating the dynamic creation of appropriate organizational knowledge.
M Lynne Markus, Ann Majchrzak, Les Gasser, A design theory for systems that support emergent knowledge processes, MISQ, 26(3), 199-XX, September 2002
Abstract
This paper addresses the design problem of providing IT support for emerging knowledge pro- cesses (EKPs). EKPs are organizational activity patterns that exhibit three characteristics in com- bination: an emergent process of deliberations with no best structure or sequence; requirements for knowledge that are complex (both general and situational), distributed across people, and evolving dynamically; and an actor set that is unpredictable in terms of job roles or prior knowl- edge. Examples of EKPs include basic research, new product development, strategic business planning, and organization design. EKPs differ qualitatively from semi-structured decision making processes; therefore, they have unique require- ments that are not all thoroughly supported by familiar classes of systems, such as executive information systems, expert systems, electronic communication systems, organizational memory systems, or repositories. Further, the develop- ment literature on familiar classes of systems does not provide adequate guidance on how to build systems that support EKPs. Consequently, EKPs require a new IS design theory, as explicated by Walls et al. (1992).
We created such a theory while designing and deploying a system for the EKP of organization design. The system was demonstrated through subsequent empirical analysis to be successful in supporting the process. Abstracting from the experience of building this system, we developed an IS design theory for EKP support systems. This new IS design theory is an important theo- retical contribution, because it both provides guidance to developers and sets an agenda for academic research. EKP design theory makes the development process more tractable for developers by restricting the range of effective features (or rules for selecting features) and the range of effective development practices to a more manageable set. EKP design theory also sets an agenda for academic research by arti- culating theory-based principles that are subject to empirical, as well as practical, validation.
David Yuh Foong Law, Joo Eng Lee-Partridge, Towards a strategy for sense-making of empirical knowledge management perceptions - The TFL Methodology, Proceedings of the 36th HICSS, 2003
Abstract
There exists a very diverse range of views and perceptions about KM and a need to appreciate these issues and concerns among different communities of knowledge workers. Our research aims to make sense of these issues which are often cross-functional, complex and ambiguous, through the construction and use of social cognitive structures. We have formalised an approach for social cognitive analysis, which we coined as the TFL Methodology. It is a 3-phase analysis approach comprising theme-based analysis (T), frame-based analysis (F), and lens-based analysis (L), which involves the use of an induced framework, which is labelled as OPTC Lens, and which serves as a pair of social cognitive lens for furthering our understanding of the manner in which social perceptions may be relatively emphasised as they are expressed by different communities or professional groups. Through focus group research, we elicited a range of perceptions commonly associated with the notion of KM among very senior executives, managers, consultants and academicians engaged in the information systems (IS) and human resource (HR) management functions respectively. Using the TFL methodology for sense-making, we unearthed a range of empirical issues and concerns with important implications to KM research and practice.
Jae Kyu Lee, Mye Sohn, Enhanced Knowledge Management with eXtensible Rule Markup Language, Proceedings of HICSS'36, 2003
Abstract
XML has become the standard platform for structured data exchange on the Web. Next concern of Semantic Web is the exchange of rules in markup language form. The rules should be represented in such a way as to allow software agents to process and browse them for human comprehension. For this purpose, we propose a language eXtensible Rule Markup Language (XRML). XRML is composed of rule identification, rule structure, and rule triggering markup languages. In XRML, a critical concern is how to extract the structured rules implicitly embedded in the Web pages and keep consistency between the two. By using the XRML, the Web based Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) can be integrated with rule-based expert systems. The advanced architecture with XRML can extend the application of KMS to automated form processing, preventive auditing, rule exchange and integration, and agent-based e-commerce.
Yogesh Malhotra, Dennis Galletta, Role of Commitment and Motivation in Knowledge Management Systems Implementation: Theory, Conceptualization and Measurement of Antecedents of Success, Proceedings of HICSS'36, 2003
Abstract
Our ignorance exceeds our knowledge where issues of motivation and commitment of knowledge workers are concerned in the context of knowledge management systems (KMS) implementation [1,16,17,18]. This study is motivated by the pervasive confusion about the role of knowledge workers' motivation and commitment in KMS implementation and sparse, if any, theoretical or empirical research on these issues. This paper proposes a theoretical framework for understanding how knowledge workers' commitment and motivation affect the use of KMS and resulting organizational performance of the KMS. The theoretical and empirical validation of the framework require first and foremost the theoretical development of the knowledge workers' commitment and motivation constructs and empirical validation of these constructs in the context of a real world organizational study of KMS implementation. The authors attempt to fulfill these specific goals within the scope of this paper. Future empirical research on the integration of motivation and commitment within diverse implementation contexts of KMS and organizational knowledge management programs is expected to further advance the theoretical and empirical development of the proposed framework.
Bandula Jayatilaka, Jinyoul Lee, An Epistemological Taxonomy for Knowledge Management Sytems Analysis, Proceedings of HICSS'36
Abstract
Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) play increasingly important roles in organizations due to the realization of the value of knowledge and capabilities of computerized systems to support knowledge management activities. Earlier researchers have explained the activities and processes important for knowledge management, which is useful for the development of systems to support knowledge management. The wide variety of knowledge domains and interactions among them in organizations makes it necessary to understand the broad epistemological spectrum that can enable effective utilization of computerized systems for knowledge management. Although, previous research had considered the processes required for dissemination of knowledge in organization, more fundamental epistemological consideration, along objective and subjective dimensions will enhance analysis of systems requirements. This paper attempts to conceptually develop taxonomy useful for analysis of knowledge requirements and for implementation of systems. Furthermore, the paper illustrates the classification using exploratory cases. dimension of knowledge, they do not adequately reflect the above phenomena using the subjective-objective dimension.
Richard Boland, Ramkrishnan Tenkasi, Perspective Making and Perspective Taking in Communities of Knowing, Organisation Science, 6(4), Jul-Aug, 1995, pp 350-372
Abstract
Knowledge-intensive firms are composed of multiple communities with specialised expertise, and are often characterised by lateral rather than hierarchical orginisational forms. We argue that producing knowledge to create innovative products and processes in such firms requires the ability to make strong perspectives within a community, as well as the ability to take the perspective of another into account.
We present models of language, communication and cognition that can assist in the design of electronic communication systems for perspective making and perspective taking. By appreciating how communication is both like a language game played in a local community and also like a transmission of messages through a conduit, and by appreciating how cognition includes a capacity to narrativize our experience as well as a cpacity to process information, we identify some guidelines for designing electronic communication systems to support knowledge work. The communication systems we propose emphasize that narratives can help construct strong perspectives within a community of knowing, and that reflecting upon and representing that perspective can created boundary objects which allow for perspective taking between communities.
We conclude by describing our vision of an idealized knowledge intensive firm with a strong culture of perspective making and perspective taking, and by identifying some elements of the electronic communication systems we would expect to see in such a firm.
Richard Boland, Ramkrishnan Tenkasi, Dov Te'eni, Designing Ifnormation Technology to support distributed cognition, Organisation Science, 5(3), August, 1994, pp456-
Mark Ackerman, Eric Mandel, Memory in the small: combining collective memory and task support for a scientific community
Abstract
Many forms of memory exist embedded within the processes and tasks of an organization or community. Memory-in-the small , or memory utilized in the performance of an institutionally important task, serves as an effective task support mechanism. By basing memory upon tasks (and basing task support upon memory), memory systems can provide additional and necessary support services for organizations and communities. As an example of memory-in-the-small, this paper describes a software system, called the ASSIST, that combines memory with task performance for a scientific community. The ASSIST utilizes and stores the collective memory of astrophysicists about data analysis, and is used world-wide by astrophysicists. The paper also considers the architectural and theoretical issues involved when combining memory with task performance.
John Carroll, Mary Rosson, Dan Dunlap, Philip Isenhour, Frameworks for sharing knowledge: toward a professional language for teaching practices, Proceedings of HICSS'03
Abstract
In many organisations, collaborating with peers, sharing resources, and codifying know-how are not typical facets of work activity. For such organizations, knowledge management support must help people identify and orient to opportunities for collaboration and sharing, articulate values and best practices, and assimilate sharing knowledge as an everyday experience. We discuss a participatory design project in which we are exploring these issues in the design of knowledge management support for public school teachers, leveraging a community networking infrastructure and everyday representational frameworks for knowledge.
Ilkka Tuomi, Data is more than knowledge: Implications of the reversed knowledge hierarchy for knowledge management and organizational memory, Journal of Management Information Systems, Winter 1999/2000, 16(3), 103-117
Abstract
The knowledge management literature often points out the importance of distringuishing among data, information and knowledge. The generally acepted view sees data as sipmle facts that become information as data are combined into meaningful structures, which subsequently become knowledge as meaningfull information is put into context and when it can be used to make predictions. According to this view, data are a prerequisite for information, and information is a prerequisite for knowledge. This paper explores the conceptual hierarchy of data, information, and knowledge, showing that data emerge only after we have information, and that information emerges only after we already have knowledge. The reversed hierarchy of knowledge is shown to lead to a different approach in developing information systems that uspport knowledge management and organizational memory. It is also argued that this difference may have major implications for organizational flexiblity and renewal.
Dave Snowden, Complex acts of knowing - paradox and descriptive self-awareness, Journal of Knowledge Management,
Abstract
We are reaching the end of the second generation of knowledge management, with its focus on tacit-explicit knowledge conversion. Triggered by the SECI model of Nonaka, it replaced a first generation focus on timely information provision for decision support and in support of business process reengineering (BPR) initiatives. Like BPR it has substantially failed to deliver on its promised benefits.
The third generation requires the clear separation of context, narrative and content management and challenges the orthodoxy of scientific management. Complex adaptive systems theory is used to create a sense-making model that utilises self-organising capabilities of the informal communities and identifies a natural flow model of knowledge creation, disruption and utilisation.
However, the argument from nature of many complexity thinkers is rejected given the human capability to create order and predictability through collective and individual acts of freewill. Knowledge is seen paradoxically, as both a thing and a flow requiring diverse management approaches.
Ian Reid, The Web, Knowledge Management and Universities, 6th Australian WWW Conference, Cairns
Abstract
The business of universities is all about knowledge. Over the centuries, they have developed a knowledge culture around this business. The rapidly expanding use of technology in teaching and learning, and the transformed economic basis upon which universities are instituted, have caused universities to transform the ways in which knowledge is produced, stored, disseminated, and authorised. The use of internet technologies in particular impacts upon academic knowledge in fundamental ways, breaking traditional knowledge linkages, creating new knowledge management practices and creating new teaching and learning cultures. A strategic approach to knowledge management in universities – a shift in focus from means to ends – allows purposeful and integrated approaches. The degree to which these changes are informed by strategic reasoning is proposed as an indicator of success. This paper illustrates a case in point.
Tahereh Changiz, Ali Moeeny, Reza Jowshan, OFIS: online faculty information system, Campus-Wide Information Systems, 21(2), 2004, 995-100
Abstract
Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, as one of the major medical universities in Iran, is an academic organization which is also responsible for all health-related services in Isfahan province. By development of IT infrastructures in the university, top management decided to utilize the capabilities of the growing IT infrastructures in order to solve data and knowledge management problems. Faculty members who are the key component in academic activities are selected as the data entity and data source. This paper describes the process of building a Web-based information system to collect information related to faculty members’ activities from themselves and produce an organizational knowledge base. An online faculty information system is now growing towards a nation-wide system and is available at: www.ofis.ir
Tomas Hellstrom, Kenneth Husted, Mapping knowledge and intellectual capital in academic environments: A focus group study, Journal of Intellectual Capital, 5(1), 2004, pp 165-180
Abstract
This paper argues that knowledge mapping may provide a fruitful avenue for intellectual capital management in academic environments such as university departments. However, while some research has been conducted on knowledge mapping and intellectual capital management in the public sector, the university has so far not been directly considered for this type of management. The paper initially reviews the functions and techniques of knowledge mapping and assesses these in the light of academic demands. Second, the result of a focus group study is presented, where academic leaders were asked to reXect of the uses of knowledge mapping at their departments and institutes. Finally a number of suggestions are made as to the rationale and conduct of knowledge mapping in academe.
Benjamin Loh, Ai-Chee Tang, Thomas Menkhof, Yue-Wah Chay, Hans-Dieter Evers, Applying knowledge management in university research,
Abstract
In the knowledge-based economy, universities are encountering dramatic changes. Their missions and functions are ‘pragmatized’ because of emerging new players and competing markets for knowledge production, the availability of higher education to a wider range of social classes and age groups, as well as the assimilation of information technology into the university environment. The dynamics and conduct of university research, in particular, has correspondingly become more sensitive to industry collaboration opportunities, commercial exploitation, and is increasingly transdisciplinary. This paper argues that knowledge management (KM) practices and tools can support universities in addressing these demands. Institutions of higher education can benefit from KM by creating and maintaining relevant knowledge repositories, improving knowledge access, enhancing the knowledge environment, and valuing knowledge. This is exemplified with reference to the Singapore Management University (SMU) where KM is increasingly being applied in the area of research.
Rick Dove, Knowledge management, response ability, and the agile enterprise, Campus-Wide Information Systems, 3(1), 1999, 18-35
Abstract
This paper defines the agile enterprise as one which is able to both manage and apply knowledge effectively, and suggests that value from either capability is impeded if they are not in balance. It looks at the application of knowledge as requiring a change, and overviews a body of analytical work on change proficiency in business systems and processes. It looks at knowledge management as a strategic portfolio management responsibility based on learning functionality, and shares knowledge and experience in organizational collaborative learning mechanisms. It introduces the concept of plug-compatible knowledge packaging as a means for increasing the velocity of knowledge diffusion and the likelihood of knowledge understood at the depth of insight. Finally, it reviews a knowledge portfolio management and collaborative knowledge development architecture used successfully in a sizable cross-industry informal-consortia activity, and suggests that it is a good model for a corporate university architecture.
Damien McManus, Brendan Loughridge, Corporate information, institutional culture and knowledge management: a UK university library perspective, New Library World, 103(1180), 2002, pp 320-327
Abstract
Based on the results of a small-scale pilot interview-based survey of senior information professionals working in the academic community in the UK, this paper reviews some of the reasons why knowledge management is apparently so unpopular in universities. Those interviewed were a Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Librarian (Communications and Information Technology), a Director of Information Strategy and University Librarian, a Director of Information Services and University Librarian, two University Librarians, an Information Strategies Coordinator at a major public funding body in higher education, and the Head of Information Services at a multinational law firm. Corporate culture and organisational structure are found to be major factors affecting perceptions of the relevance of knowledge management programmes and projects.