“A system that will do magic ”: organizational perspective on the technological layer in knowledge management
Aslib Journal of Information Management
ISSN: 2050-3806
Article publication date: 1 April 2022
Issue publication date: 29 September 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to give expression, for the first time, to the contemporary perceptions of knowledge management (KM) professionals regarding the technological layer in KM. From an organizational-holistic view, the authors strive to provide a deeper understanding of the position and role of technology in KM in knowledge-intensive organizations.
Design/methodology/approach
As part of the adoption of the qualitative-constructivist paradigm, the research started with in-depth interviews and continued with focus groups. The data were collected from 21 KM experts and analyzed according to the thematic analysis method, based on the grounded theory.
Findings
Although many hopes depend on technological tools, the authors learn why KM cannot be considered a purely information technology (IT)-based process. The study raises significant concern regarding the leadership of KM efforts by IT units, due to the possible lack of focus on strategic aspects supported by that support closing knowledge gaps. KM experts support technological changes and anticipate the introduction of automated mechanisms for knowledge flow processes.
Originality/value
Understanding the technological component of KM provides a window of opportunity for the meanings ascribed by the professionals to the whole KM discipline. The results improve the understanding that the KM community should be required to be more aware of the business-organizational aspects for which the practice of KM in the organization is required, as well as the centrality of human resources in knowledge creation and sharing. Moreover, the paper provides a unique glimpse into the future of organizational KM.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
Funding: The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose.
Conflict of interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare that are relevant to the content of this article.
Citation
Nakash, M. and Bouhnik, D. (2022), "“
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2022, Emerald Publishing Limited