This empirical study examines how chief knowledge officers (CKOs) interpret measurements performe... more This empirical study examines how chief knowledge officers (CKOs) interpret measurements performed in knowledge management systems (KMS) and reflected in business intelligence dashboards. Specifically, it investigates CKOs' perceptions of common KMS indicators and their relationship to knowledge management (KM) success. Adopting a constructivist inductive approach, the study relies on qualitative data from interviews, focus groups, and cyber-ethnography. The findings reveal that usage statistics, like system logins, do not necessarily signify the value of KM initiatives and that organizations avoid linking KMS metrics to business performance. By contributing vital insights to KMS performance literature, we indicate the limitations inherent in current evaluation approaches focused narrowly on usage quantification. Practical implications suggest combining quantitative monitoring of access frequency and patterns with KMS benefits qualitative assessments. Overall, the juxtaposition of usage data against perceived value provides an important perspective on developing more meaningful and effective KMS performance measurements.
Interdisciplinary Journal of Information, Knowledge, and Management, 2023
Aim/Purpose. COVID-19 was an unprecedented disruptive event that accelerated the shift to remote ... more Aim/Purpose. COVID-19 was an unprecedented disruptive event that accelerated the shift to remote work and encouraged widespread adoption of digital tools in organizations. This empirical study was conducted from an organizational-strategic perspective, with the aim of examining how the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak affected employees’ use of organizational information systems (IS) as reflected in frequency. Background. To date, only a limited effort has been made, and a rather narrow perspective has been adopted, regarding the consequences of the adoption of new work environments following COVID-19. It seems that the literature is lacking in information regarding employee use of organizational IS since the outbreak of the pandemic. Specifically, this issue has not yet been examined in relation to employees’ perception about the organization’s digital efforts and technological maturity for remote work. The present study bridges this gap. Methodology. The public sector in Israel, which employs about a third of the Israeli work-force, was chosen as a case study of information-intensive organizations. During the first year of COVID-19, 716 questionnaires were completed by employees and managers belonging to four government ministries operating in Israel. The responses were statistically analyzed using a Chi-Square and Spearman’s Rho tests. Contribution. Given that the global pandemic is an ongoing phenomenon and not a passing episode, the findings provide important theoretical and practical contributions. The period prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and the period of the pandemic are compared with regard to organizational IS use. Specifically, the study sheds new light on the fact that employee perceptions motivated increased IS use during an emergency. The results contribute to the developing body of empirical knowledge in the IS field in the era of digital transformation (DT). Findings. More than half of the respondents who reported that they did not use IS before COVID-19 stated that the pandemic did not change this. We also found a significant positive correlation between the perception of the digital efforts made by organizations to enable connection to the IS for remote work and a change in frequency of IS use. This frequency was also found to have a significant positive correlation with the perception of the organization’s technological maturity to enable effective and continuous remote work. Recommendations for Practitioners. In an era of accelerating DT, this paper provides insights that may support chief information officers and chief digital officers in understanding how to promote the use of IS. The results can be useful for raising awareness of the importance of communicating managerial messages for employees regarding the organizational strategy and the resilience achieved through IS not only in routine, but also in particular in emergency situations. Recommendations for Researchers. Considering that the continual crisis has created challenges in IS research, it is appropriate to continue researching the adaptation and acclimation of organizations to the “new normal”. Impact on Society. The COVID-19 pandemic created a sudden change in employment models, which have become more flexible than ever. The research insights enrich the knowledge about the concrete consequences of this critical change. Future Research. We suggest that researchers investigate this core issue in other sectors and/or other countries, in order to be obtain new and complementary empirical insights on a comparative basis.
Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology - JASIST, 2023
This empirical research examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on information management (... more This empirical research examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on information management (IM) in remote or hybrid work. We present an indepth statistical analysis of 716 responses to questionnaires received from employees and managers of four Israeli government ministries. The participants were asked to report characteristics such as accessibility, retrieval speed, ease of locating, and relevance of information, in order to assess the quality of organizational IM before and during COVID-19. The findings reveal that IM quality was maintained even when organizations were forced to quickly adapt to working remotely during the pandemic. Regardless of work location, differences in perception of IM were found among organizations of different sizes: large, medium, and small. The majority of respondents who reported not using IM systems (IMS) before COVID-19 also stated that even after the pandemic's onset, they still did not use them. A lower frequency of IMS use has been associated with a decline in IM quality. Given the far-reaching changes in IM induced by the pandemic, many of which have the potential to be long-lasting, these findings serve as an opening for valuable future research.
Purpose-This research seeks to understand, for the first time, what motivates knowledge-intensive... more Purpose-This research seeks to understand, for the first time, what motivates knowledge-intensive organizations (KIOs) to initiate knowledge management (KM) activities in times of routine and emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic was placed at the center as a case study of an extreme crisis. Design/methodology/approach-Based on the adoption of the qualitative-constructivist paradigm, the study was conducted among 52 KM professionals through in-depth interviews and focus groups. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method, according to the principles of the grounded theory approach. Findings-The findings reveal that opportunities and risks are two types of catalysts which accelerate KM efforts in times of routine and emergency respectively. Due to KM's support of the transition to flexible employment during COVID-19, the authors show that this field experienced real growth and prosperity in the "new normal." KM initiatives were promoted during the COVID-19 crisis in light of gaps in retention, sharing, accessibility and development of knowledge. Originality/value-Given that knowledge risks are a field with fragmented understanding, the results contribute to understanding the importance of risk management related to knowledge in times of crises and turmoil. The authors call for incorporating this niche into the overall risk management of the organization, while adopting a holistic and long-term perspective of KM. Furthermore, the authors uncover KM's position in KIOs during the global pandemic. The paper proposes food for thought regarding informal knowledge sharing in virtual environments typical of the "Corona routine".
This study examines the challenges and methods of knowledge management (KM) effectiveness assessm... more This study examines the challenges and methods of knowledge management (KM) effectiveness assessment in knowledge-intensive organisations. Specifically, the authors put the spotlight, for the first time, on KM professionals' perceptions regarding the examination of KM success that relies on non-financial indicators. The research was conducted with the participation of 21 KM experts through in-depth interviews and focus groups. The results reveal that many organisations do not carry out systematic and consistent KM measurements. Recognising the ever changing dynamics of organisations, the reasons behind the neglect of this evaluation are presented in the paper. As the challenges of the field and the KM effectiveness evaluation are of the lesser developed aspects of the discipline, the present study gives rise to significant innovations. Furthermore, it adopts the call to understand the added value of KM from a wider perspective than that which focuses pure financial metrics.
Purpose-This study aims to give expression, for the first time, to the contemporary perceptions o... more 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 knowledgeintensive 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.
This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in v... more This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in view of the claims of its decline. In doing so, we explored the meanings attributed by international KM experts regarding statements made about the death of the discipline, or at the very least, its illness. A case method was chosen. The study was conducted through fifteen semi-structured in-depth interviews, as part of the qualitative research paradigm. The findings provide evidence not only of the vitality of the field, but also of its significant growth and impressive evolutionary development since it was founded. The Findings section presents a snapshot of KM experts' perception of the source of the pessimistic statements about the discipline and offer significant insights into the question of where this field is going. We find that the future of KM lies in developing automated mechanisms for knowledge flow that rely on machine learning tools, artificial intelligence, and advanced cognitive capabilities. Furthermore, we ponder the possibility of a rebranding of KM, given the experts' feeling that narrow, partial, or misconceived conceptions about it are prevalent. The importance of this pioneering research is reflected in the adoption of a critical-skeptical approach, which is almost completely absent from the KM literature. The uniqueness of this research is also reflected in the voices of KM professionals. In addition to the theoretical contribution, this study has implications on the practical level regarding the necessity of the KM profession and the necessity for further empirical research in the field.
VINE Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems, 2021
Purpose-This study aims to examine the relevance of the term "knowledge management" (KM) in the o... more Purpose-This study aims to examine the relevance of the term "knowledge management" (KM) in the organizational context, and deliberates whether there is a need for rebranding of this field. It also enriches the understanding regarding the appropriateness of the term "KM," which was chosen to represent the discipline. Design/methodology/approach-This study adopted a qualitative research methodology, and a case study approach was followed by conducting 19 semi-structured in-depth interviews with international KM experts working in a global consulting firm. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method based on the grounded theory approach. Findings-The findings provide empirical evidence that attempts are being made to move away from the label "KM" in certain knowledge-intensive organizations. This study sheds light on the challenges associated with this term, which leads some to believe that the name of the discipline needs to change. Originality/value-The present pioneering research contributes to empirical knowledge through investigation of an unexplored scientific field. To the best of the authors' knowledge, for the first time, its uniqueness can be established by the fact that the opinions of KM professionals are being heard regarding the "KM" label, as well as the need for a rebranding of this discipline in the organizational context. From a practical and strategic perspective, this study suggests that the research community and practitioners pay attention to attempts to shift away from the existing title identified in organizational practice.
Purpose-This paper focuses on the meanings attributed to the measurement of return on investment ... more Purpose-This paper focuses on the meanings attributed to the measurement of return on investment (ROI) in knowledge management (KM) initiatives in knowledge-intensive organizations. At the heart of this exploratory research is the introduction of a unique coherent perspective of discipline experts regarding the ROI metric, as part of their perception of assessing effectiveness in this field. Design/methodology/approach-The research begins with in-depth semi-structured personal interviews and continues with focus groups, as part of a qualitative research paradigm. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method, based on the grounded theory approach. Findings-The findings provide empirical evidence regarding the significant challenges associated with the objective assessment of KM performance, which is deeply rooted in numerical-financial values. Despite the high status of ROI in the business environment, the authors find that decision-makers surprisingly avoid evaluating ROI for the most important resource of the organization, notwithstanding the immeasurable hopes that depend on this performance measure and the expectation of establishing the profitability of investment in organizational KM. Originality/value-The uniqueness of this research is the adoption of the skeptical-critical research approach. For the first time, the authors interrogate the suitability and relevance of the general model of the ROI metric as a means of proving the value and contribution of well-managed knowledge to organizations. The authors call for adoption of a new integrative perspective for evaluating effectiveness, which will reflect the holistic set of KM in organizations.
This paper aims to explore the interrelation between the difficulty in justifying to executives t... more This paper aims to explore the interrelation between the difficulty in justifying to executives the resources necessary for knowledge management (KM) in itiativesand the challenges in understanding the value of optimal KM. From in-depth personal interviews and group interviews with 41KM professionals, we reveal eight significant challenges that may explain the difficulty of understanding the true value of KM for knowledge-intensive organisations. We reveal that these challenges have a significant effect on the perceptions of the profitability of budget investments in tools and practices aimed at improving knowledge flow in organisations. Given that the present study is the antithesis of previous research, we suggest that future researchers deepen the research of the positions of senior executives regarding KM. This research is unique in its attempt to close the gap in the literature created by the lack of scientific studies on the challenges at the heart of the discipline.
This paper presents our proposal for an exploratory research study. The objective of the research... more This paper presents our proposal for an exploratory research study. The objective of the research is to develop a conceptual framework of the interpretations, meanings, perceptions, and beliefs related to the role, development, and future of the knowledge management (KM) discipline. We propose to develop a holistic model that will depict professionals' perceptions of this issue: the combined perceptions of both KM consultants and knowledge managers. The proposed qualitative research will be based on three research tools: Semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus groups, and content analysis. The data will be analyzed using a thematic analysis method based on the grounded theory approach. We collected preliminary empirical evidence from international KM experts during 2020. The findings revealed a remarkable variety of issues that exist at the core of the KM discipline. These issues include the role and purpose of KM in knowledge-intensive organizations, the implications of the existence or absence of KM, and views about future avenues for its development. Our intention is to explore these issues further by expanding the research to other KM professionals. Through this, we hope to assist in the positioning of the discipline in the age of knowledge. This research may contribute significantly to both the theoretical and practical aspects of KM. Its uniqueness is reflected in the voices of KM professionals. We foresee that our research will enable a better understanding of the evolution of KM as a discipline, its contemporary role, and its future possibilities.
VINE Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems, 2020
This study aims to identify the risks associated with the lack of optimal knowledge management (K... more This study aims to identify the risks associated with the lack of optimal knowledge management (KM) in knowledge-intensive organizations and delves into understanding their severity. In doing so, the authors explored the significance attributed to these issues by international KM experts. A case method was chosen. The study began with semi-structured in-depth interviews and continued with focus groups as part of the qualitative research paradigm. The data was analyzed using a thematic analysis method, based on the grounded theory approach. The findings provide empirical evidence for a set of risks faced by organizations in a reality where organizational knowledge is managed poorly. The study finds that, in the experts' view, the risks associated with knowledge constitute a clear catalyst for initiating and investing efforts to manage organizational knowledge. In addition, their severity is usually understood only after the occurrence of a business or organizational crisis related to knowledge. This pioneering research contributes to empirical knowledge through an unexplored scientific field. The uniqueness of this research is also reflected in the voices of KM professionals. The authors extended the literature on knowledge risks, taking a broad perspective of a variety of organizations from different sectors. In doing so, the study also contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of KM. The study has implications on the practical level in view of deepening the understanding of the severity of the risk in the absence of optimal KM in knowledge-intensive organizations.
This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in v... more This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in view of the claims of its decline. In doing so, we explored the meanings attributed by international KM experts regarding statements made about the death of the discipline, or at the very least, its illness. A case method was chosen. The study was conducted through fifteen semi-structured in-depth interviews, as part of the qualitative research paradigm. The findings provide evidence not only of the vitality of the field, but also of its significant growth and impressive evolutionary development since it was founded. The Findings section presents a snapshot of KM experts' perception of the source of the pessimistic statements about the discipline and offer significant insights into the question of where this field is going. We find that the future of KM lies in developing automated mechanisms for knowledge flow that rely on machine learning tools, artificial intelligence, and advanced cognitive capabilities. Furthermore, we ponder the possibility of a rebranding of KM, given the experts' feeling that narrow, partial, or misconceived conceptions about it are prevalent. The importance of this pioneering research is reflected in the adoption of a critical-skeptical approach, which is almost completely absent from the KM literature. The uniqueness of this research is also reflected in the voices of KM professionals. In addition to the theoretical contribution, this study has implications on the practical level regarding the necessity of the KM profession and the necessity for further empirical research in the field.
In the complex mosaic of the digital age, the tactical incorporation of artificial intelligence (... more In the complex mosaic of the digital age, the tactical incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) within knowledge management (KM) is revealed as a central business component of technology management. The current study aims to clarify the intersection between KM and AI in organizational contexts. Specifically, this paper represents a preliminary step to investigate the potential impacts of AI on KM research and practice. Building on a database we created from Scopus, we shine a spotlight on trends in pertinent peer-reviewed scientific articles published in the last decade (2013-2023) on the KM-AI nexus. In addition, the paper presents an extended systematic analysis of literature, which synthesizes theoretical and empirical works conducted to date on this topic. Through a review of the available studies, we strive to shed light on effective KM frameworks and strategies in the era of AI. As extant research in the literature is largely theoretical, we propose to conduct empirical research on AI technologies in core KM processes such as acquisition, documentation, sharing, and application of knowledge. In addition, we recognize that the challenges and barriers to implementing AI in KM systems are not in focus and deserve to ignite further research. The anticipated contributions from such inquiries promise not only to augment the corpus of knowledge within the discipline, but also to furnish KM practitioners with the insights necessary for the crafting of efficacious systems. This research marks the advent of a transformative scholarly epoch, wherein the harmonious integration of KM and AI emerges as the bedrock of organizational ingenuity and strategic acumen. It distinguishes itself from prior works by pinpointing knowledge gaps in the synergy between disciplines and underscores the imperative for future research to bridge these lacunae.
Knowledge Hubs (KHs) are centralized repositories that consolidate a diverse array of information... more Knowledge Hubs (KHs) are centralized repositories that consolidate a diverse array of information and resources into a single, accessible location. These hubs are specifically designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of call center operations. By integrating advanced search algorithms and machine learning capabilities, KHs provide a unified access point to critical data, enabling call center agents to swiftly retrieve the information needed to resolve customer inquiries accurately and efficiently. Despite their potential, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the measurement of KHs in service and support centers, particularly with respect to empirical studies. This study aims to identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) evaluated in call centers in relation to the successful implementation of KHs. Participant observation was conducted in three service and support centers belonging to large organizations: a financial institution, a government office, and a technology company. The results highlight KPIs that emphasize the role of KHs in promoting a more collaborative and informed work environment. ECKM 2024: 25th European Conference on Knowledge Management, 5-6 September 2024. Invited Poster
Taxonomies are controlled vocabularies and multidimensional frameworks for organizing and classif... more Taxonomies are controlled vocabularies and multidimensional frameworks for organizing and classifying content. This study is the first to examine the meanings chief knowledge officers (CKOs) ascribe to corporate taxonomy mapping for enabling sustainable performance-driven knowledge management (KM). Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the research corpus comprised in-depth interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and cyber-ethnography. The findings underscore the essential role of investing resources in systematic taxonomy management as a cornerstone for attaining excellence in KM. Empirical evidence is provided for the critical importance of consistent taxonomies in establishing standardized terminology, facilitating systematic knowledge retrieval, and streamlining access within KM systems. Insight is provided into the constraints of contemporary technological advancements, including the capabilities of auto-tagging and classification through artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) techniques. We underscore the nuanced interaction between human cognition and automated human-like capabilities in taxonomic classification, stressing the importance of embracing a balanced leadership socio-technical approach to the dynamic development of taxonomies. Furthermore, the study proposes promising avenues for future research to enhance the depth of inquiry into this subject matter.
InSITE 2024: Informing Science + IT Education Conferences, 2024
Aim/Purpose: The study aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between Organizational Learni... more Aim/Purpose: The study aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between Organizational Learning (OL) and Knowledge Management (KM), two pivotal organizational capabilities whose interplay remains enigmatic. This study ventures into the depths of this relationship, seeking to demystify the interplay between the structured, strategic management of knowledge and the more fluid, organic process of learning within an organization. Background: Organizational knowledge dynamics pivot on the axis of individual and collective learning processes. KM refers to a multidisciplinary approach to achieving organizational objectives by making the best use of knowledge. The collaborative knowledge culture forms the bedrock of effective OL, which, alongside KM, constitutes essential organizational competencies. As such, KM is inherently intertwined with OL, as both aim to harness intellectual capital and foster an environment conducive to continuous improvement and innovation. Yet, the nexus between OL and KM is shrouded in ambiguity, posing a conundrum that this research seeks to unravel, especially as emerging technologies reshape the landscape of knowledge sharing. Methodology: Employing interpretive and inductive qualitative approaches, this study gathered insights through 13 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with Human Capital Management (HCM) experts. Content analysis emerged as the principal analytical tool, processing the rich qualitative data to distill meaningful patterns and themes. Contribution: This research contributes to the theoretical and practical understanding of OL and KM affinities. It underscores the necessity of recognizing the complementary nature of these fields within organizational structures. Findings: Since the advent of the concept “learning in the flow of work,” the domain of OL has increasingly integrated key aspects from the KM discipline. The study reveals that while OL and KM are distinct domains, they are also symbiotic, thriving on each other's strengths. This interdependence is underscored by their shared focus on knowledge resource creation and intellectual capital cultivation. Often, a singular corporate entity oversees both OL and KM, indicating a convergence within organizational development paradigms. Notably, the overlapping activities between OL and KM, such as discussion forums and knowledge exchanges, underscore the challenge of demarcating disciplinary boundaries in practice. The integration of sophisticated technologies such as AI-driven analytics, cloud computing, and collaborative software has been instrumental in facilitating this convergence. Recommendations for Practitioners: Practitioners are encouraged to cultivate environments where OL and KM merge effortlessly, leveraging their synergies to bolster organizational effectiveness and the richness of intellectual resources. Recommendations for Researchers: Future research should delve into the nuanced distinctions and commonalities between the roles of learning and knowledge managers across industries, aiming to refine the theoretical frameworks that underpin these roles. Researchers should also explore the transformative potential of technology in defining these roles and in the execution of OL and KM strategies. Impact on Society: By clarifying the OL and KM interrelationship, this study paves the way for more informed organizational practices that can contribute to societal advancement through improved knowledge dissemination and learning methodologies. Future Research: Subsequent inquiries may investigate the modalities of training content accessibility at the point of need, aligning with the imperatives of real-time, on-demand learning models that resonate with contemporary work dynamics.
InSITE 2024: Informing Science + IT Education Conferences, 2024
Aim/Purpose Given the widely acknowledged significance of intellectual capital (IC) for organizat... more Aim/Purpose Given the widely acknowledged significance of intellectual capital (IC) for organizational success, managing knowledge assets remains a multifaceted challenge. This study investigates the role of human and social factors in intellectual capital management (ICM) within businesses. Background. A company’s IC is the collective embodiment of knowledge resources that provide a strategic advantage. The literature often blurs the lines between ICM and knowledge management (KM) due to their shared focus on knowledge and processes, leading to a conflation of the terms within certain discourse communities. Methodology. The study utilized grounded theory methodology, conducting semi-structured in-depth interviews and organizing two focus groups with 52 industry KM professionals. Additionally, cyber-ethnography included a compilation of 20,349 posts and comments from two Facebook communities dedicated to this domain practitioners. Contribution This study expands the current understanding by positing that a conducive organizational culture, characterized by a supportive environment for knowledge exchange, is instrumental in the successful implementation of ICM. In light of the emphasis on the human and social elements, the findings also contribute to and enrich the discipline of change management. Findings. The incorporation of tangible technological tools within corporate settings for the purposes of ICM often garners significant attention. Nonetheless, a consistent theme emerging from the study’s results is the affirmation by participants that the pivotal entity in organizational KM is the human individual. It is recognized that the seamless flow of knowledge among employees, teams, and divisions is predicated on the capacity to unearth the latent knowledge possessed by knowledge workers. Concurrently, the act of sharing knowledge among peers is encumbered by substantial emotional and behavioral challenges. Consequently, it is becoming increasingly acknowledged that in a knowledge-centric society, the efficacy of ICM is profoundly shaped by an organizational culture that is fosters to knowledge. Recommendations for Practitioners. As part of building a learning organization, it is necessary to adopt a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to ICM. Practitioners must recognize the importance of organizational culture for the successful assimilation of processes of creation, preservation, exchange, accessibility, reuse, and leveraging of knowledge. Considering that these may also exist in informal social interaction, it would be prudent to promote intra-organizational initiatives that foster relationships of trust and commitment between employees. Recommendations for Researchers In consideration of the intricate interplay between the ‘knowledge is power’ adage and individual motivations, this research advocates for interdisciplinary inquiry that integrates behavioral and social science theories. The proposed research will delve into the psychological underpinnings, encompassing both aversion and incentive mechanisms, that steer knowledge sharing behaviors within organizational settings. The ultimate aim of this inquiry is to devise strategies or interventions that bolster a culture of positive and cooperative knowledge exchange. Impact on Society. The research findings enhance societal comprehension of the human and social dynamics that may either facilitate or impede the pursuit of excellence in KM. Future Research. In the evolving landscape of the knowledge economy, the adoption of ICM practices is pivotal for enhancing organizational competencies, driving business performance, and fostering innovation. Future research should concentrate on exploring robust change management strategies that engage employees effectively and mitigate resistance to KM initiatives.
InSITE 2024: Informing Science + IT Education Conferences, 2024
Aim/Purpose. This exploratory study seeks to surface a richer understanding regarding the direct ... more Aim/Purpose. This exploratory study seeks to surface a richer understanding regarding the direct experience of software developers (SDs) working in sprints as part of the adoption of agile methodology principles. Background. The software development industry is increasingly adopting agile development methods. In the agile methodology, the delivery cycle is broken down into sprints, also known as iterations. There is relatively little empirical knowledge produced to date on agile software development methods. Specifically, the SDs’ authentic work experience in agile sprints is a subject that is missing from the literature. Methodology. This paper presents results based on data collected through preliminary in-depth interviews with SDs working in research and development teams of Israeli high-tech companies. As a heuristic device for describing their experience, an interpretive phenomenological perspective was adopted. Content analysis was used as a central methodology to analyze the data. Findings. The preliminary results present the ways of managing a development project in sprints, put a spotlight on the value of the agile method, and provide a unique glimpse of its challenges. Contribution. Our work adds to the growing body of research investigating the SDs’ perceptions. The preliminary results develop the theoretical and practical knowledge related to managing agile sprints, with reference to optimal communication, monitoring, control, and knowledge sharing among SDs in agile projects.
Twenty-fourth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations, 2024
Information plays a strategic role in supporting organizational processes and has a significant i... more Information plays a strategic role in supporting organizational processes and has a significant impact on business performance. In order to increase employee productivity and generate positive organizational results, organizations implement information systems (IS). IS are one of the most substantial resources that profoundly effect the organizations' survival and success. Many employers adapted their organizational activities to maintain social distance during COVID-19 pandemic by investing in digital tools, with the potential to allow continued remote work even after the crisis. Many believe the digital transformation (DT) at the workplace has accelerated in response to COVID-19. This acceleration has the potential to mitigate the vulnerability of organizations if and when the next crisis appears. This study puts a spotlight on the human capital (HC) experiences regarding the enablers and inhibitors associated with working in flexible employment models upon the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. The paper presented at the Twenty-fourth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations; The Future We Want: Organizational Responsibilities for Climate Responses. Lusiada Research Center on Social Work and Social Intervention, Luisada University, Lisbon, Portugal and Virtual. July 3-5, 2024.
This empirical study examines how chief knowledge officers (CKOs) interpret measurements performe... more This empirical study examines how chief knowledge officers (CKOs) interpret measurements performed in knowledge management systems (KMS) and reflected in business intelligence dashboards. Specifically, it investigates CKOs' perceptions of common KMS indicators and their relationship to knowledge management (KM) success. Adopting a constructivist inductive approach, the study relies on qualitative data from interviews, focus groups, and cyber-ethnography. The findings reveal that usage statistics, like system logins, do not necessarily signify the value of KM initiatives and that organizations avoid linking KMS metrics to business performance. By contributing vital insights to KMS performance literature, we indicate the limitations inherent in current evaluation approaches focused narrowly on usage quantification. Practical implications suggest combining quantitative monitoring of access frequency and patterns with KMS benefits qualitative assessments. Overall, the juxtaposition of usage data against perceived value provides an important perspective on developing more meaningful and effective KMS performance measurements.
Interdisciplinary Journal of Information, Knowledge, and Management, 2023
Aim/Purpose. COVID-19 was an unprecedented disruptive event that accelerated the shift to remote ... more Aim/Purpose. COVID-19 was an unprecedented disruptive event that accelerated the shift to remote work and encouraged widespread adoption of digital tools in organizations. This empirical study was conducted from an organizational-strategic perspective, with the aim of examining how the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak affected employees’ use of organizational information systems (IS) as reflected in frequency. Background. To date, only a limited effort has been made, and a rather narrow perspective has been adopted, regarding the consequences of the adoption of new work environments following COVID-19. It seems that the literature is lacking in information regarding employee use of organizational IS since the outbreak of the pandemic. Specifically, this issue has not yet been examined in relation to employees’ perception about the organization’s digital efforts and technological maturity for remote work. The present study bridges this gap. Methodology. The public sector in Israel, which employs about a third of the Israeli work-force, was chosen as a case study of information-intensive organizations. During the first year of COVID-19, 716 questionnaires were completed by employees and managers belonging to four government ministries operating in Israel. The responses were statistically analyzed using a Chi-Square and Spearman’s Rho tests. Contribution. Given that the global pandemic is an ongoing phenomenon and not a passing episode, the findings provide important theoretical and practical contributions. The period prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and the period of the pandemic are compared with regard to organizational IS use. Specifically, the study sheds new light on the fact that employee perceptions motivated increased IS use during an emergency. The results contribute to the developing body of empirical knowledge in the IS field in the era of digital transformation (DT). Findings. More than half of the respondents who reported that they did not use IS before COVID-19 stated that the pandemic did not change this. We also found a significant positive correlation between the perception of the digital efforts made by organizations to enable connection to the IS for remote work and a change in frequency of IS use. This frequency was also found to have a significant positive correlation with the perception of the organization’s technological maturity to enable effective and continuous remote work. Recommendations for Practitioners. In an era of accelerating DT, this paper provides insights that may support chief information officers and chief digital officers in understanding how to promote the use of IS. The results can be useful for raising awareness of the importance of communicating managerial messages for employees regarding the organizational strategy and the resilience achieved through IS not only in routine, but also in particular in emergency situations. Recommendations for Researchers. Considering that the continual crisis has created challenges in IS research, it is appropriate to continue researching the adaptation and acclimation of organizations to the “new normal”. Impact on Society. The COVID-19 pandemic created a sudden change in employment models, which have become more flexible than ever. The research insights enrich the knowledge about the concrete consequences of this critical change. Future Research. We suggest that researchers investigate this core issue in other sectors and/or other countries, in order to be obtain new and complementary empirical insights on a comparative basis.
Journal of the Association for Information Science and Technology - JASIST, 2023
This empirical research examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on information management (... more This empirical research examines the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on information management (IM) in remote or hybrid work. We present an indepth statistical analysis of 716 responses to questionnaires received from employees and managers of four Israeli government ministries. The participants were asked to report characteristics such as accessibility, retrieval speed, ease of locating, and relevance of information, in order to assess the quality of organizational IM before and during COVID-19. The findings reveal that IM quality was maintained even when organizations were forced to quickly adapt to working remotely during the pandemic. Regardless of work location, differences in perception of IM were found among organizations of different sizes: large, medium, and small. The majority of respondents who reported not using IM systems (IMS) before COVID-19 also stated that even after the pandemic's onset, they still did not use them. A lower frequency of IMS use has been associated with a decline in IM quality. Given the far-reaching changes in IM induced by the pandemic, many of which have the potential to be long-lasting, these findings serve as an opening for valuable future research.
Purpose-This research seeks to understand, for the first time, what motivates knowledge-intensive... more Purpose-This research seeks to understand, for the first time, what motivates knowledge-intensive organizations (KIOs) to initiate knowledge management (KM) activities in times of routine and emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic was placed at the center as a case study of an extreme crisis. Design/methodology/approach-Based on the adoption of the qualitative-constructivist paradigm, the study was conducted among 52 KM professionals through in-depth interviews and focus groups. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method, according to the principles of the grounded theory approach. Findings-The findings reveal that opportunities and risks are two types of catalysts which accelerate KM efforts in times of routine and emergency respectively. Due to KM's support of the transition to flexible employment during COVID-19, the authors show that this field experienced real growth and prosperity in the "new normal." KM initiatives were promoted during the COVID-19 crisis in light of gaps in retention, sharing, accessibility and development of knowledge. Originality/value-Given that knowledge risks are a field with fragmented understanding, the results contribute to understanding the importance of risk management related to knowledge in times of crises and turmoil. The authors call for incorporating this niche into the overall risk management of the organization, while adopting a holistic and long-term perspective of KM. Furthermore, the authors uncover KM's position in KIOs during the global pandemic. The paper proposes food for thought regarding informal knowledge sharing in virtual environments typical of the "Corona routine".
This study examines the challenges and methods of knowledge management (KM) effectiveness assessm... more This study examines the challenges and methods of knowledge management (KM) effectiveness assessment in knowledge-intensive organisations. Specifically, the authors put the spotlight, for the first time, on KM professionals' perceptions regarding the examination of KM success that relies on non-financial indicators. The research was conducted with the participation of 21 KM experts through in-depth interviews and focus groups. The results reveal that many organisations do not carry out systematic and consistent KM measurements. Recognising the ever changing dynamics of organisations, the reasons behind the neglect of this evaluation are presented in the paper. As the challenges of the field and the KM effectiveness evaluation are of the lesser developed aspects of the discipline, the present study gives rise to significant innovations. Furthermore, it adopts the call to understand the added value of KM from a wider perspective than that which focuses pure financial metrics.
Purpose-This study aims to give expression, for the first time, to the contemporary perceptions o... more 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 knowledgeintensive 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.
This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in v... more This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in view of the claims of its decline. In doing so, we explored the meanings attributed by international KM experts regarding statements made about the death of the discipline, or at the very least, its illness. A case method was chosen. The study was conducted through fifteen semi-structured in-depth interviews, as part of the qualitative research paradigm. The findings provide evidence not only of the vitality of the field, but also of its significant growth and impressive evolutionary development since it was founded. The Findings section presents a snapshot of KM experts' perception of the source of the pessimistic statements about the discipline and offer significant insights into the question of where this field is going. We find that the future of KM lies in developing automated mechanisms for knowledge flow that rely on machine learning tools, artificial intelligence, and advanced cognitive capabilities. Furthermore, we ponder the possibility of a rebranding of KM, given the experts' feeling that narrow, partial, or misconceived conceptions about it are prevalent. The importance of this pioneering research is reflected in the adoption of a critical-skeptical approach, which is almost completely absent from the KM literature. The uniqueness of this research is also reflected in the voices of KM professionals. In addition to the theoretical contribution, this study has implications on the practical level regarding the necessity of the KM profession and the necessity for further empirical research in the field.
VINE Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems, 2021
Purpose-This study aims to examine the relevance of the term "knowledge management" (KM) in the o... more Purpose-This study aims to examine the relevance of the term "knowledge management" (KM) in the organizational context, and deliberates whether there is a need for rebranding of this field. It also enriches the understanding regarding the appropriateness of the term "KM," which was chosen to represent the discipline. Design/methodology/approach-This study adopted a qualitative research methodology, and a case study approach was followed by conducting 19 semi-structured in-depth interviews with international KM experts working in a global consulting firm. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method based on the grounded theory approach. Findings-The findings provide empirical evidence that attempts are being made to move away from the label "KM" in certain knowledge-intensive organizations. This study sheds light on the challenges associated with this term, which leads some to believe that the name of the discipline needs to change. Originality/value-The present pioneering research contributes to empirical knowledge through investigation of an unexplored scientific field. To the best of the authors' knowledge, for the first time, its uniqueness can be established by the fact that the opinions of KM professionals are being heard regarding the "KM" label, as well as the need for a rebranding of this discipline in the organizational context. From a practical and strategic perspective, this study suggests that the research community and practitioners pay attention to attempts to shift away from the existing title identified in organizational practice.
Purpose-This paper focuses on the meanings attributed to the measurement of return on investment ... more Purpose-This paper focuses on the meanings attributed to the measurement of return on investment (ROI) in knowledge management (KM) initiatives in knowledge-intensive organizations. At the heart of this exploratory research is the introduction of a unique coherent perspective of discipline experts regarding the ROI metric, as part of their perception of assessing effectiveness in this field. Design/methodology/approach-The research begins with in-depth semi-structured personal interviews and continues with focus groups, as part of a qualitative research paradigm. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method, based on the grounded theory approach. Findings-The findings provide empirical evidence regarding the significant challenges associated with the objective assessment of KM performance, which is deeply rooted in numerical-financial values. Despite the high status of ROI in the business environment, the authors find that decision-makers surprisingly avoid evaluating ROI for the most important resource of the organization, notwithstanding the immeasurable hopes that depend on this performance measure and the expectation of establishing the profitability of investment in organizational KM. Originality/value-The uniqueness of this research is the adoption of the skeptical-critical research approach. For the first time, the authors interrogate the suitability and relevance of the general model of the ROI metric as a means of proving the value and contribution of well-managed knowledge to organizations. The authors call for adoption of a new integrative perspective for evaluating effectiveness, which will reflect the holistic set of KM in organizations.
This paper aims to explore the interrelation between the difficulty in justifying to executives t... more This paper aims to explore the interrelation between the difficulty in justifying to executives the resources necessary for knowledge management (KM) in itiativesand the challenges in understanding the value of optimal KM. From in-depth personal interviews and group interviews with 41KM professionals, we reveal eight significant challenges that may explain the difficulty of understanding the true value of KM for knowledge-intensive organisations. We reveal that these challenges have a significant effect on the perceptions of the profitability of budget investments in tools and practices aimed at improving knowledge flow in organisations. Given that the present study is the antithesis of previous research, we suggest that future researchers deepen the research of the positions of senior executives regarding KM. This research is unique in its attempt to close the gap in the literature created by the lack of scientific studies on the challenges at the heart of the discipline.
This paper presents our proposal for an exploratory research study. The objective of the research... more This paper presents our proposal for an exploratory research study. The objective of the research is to develop a conceptual framework of the interpretations, meanings, perceptions, and beliefs related to the role, development, and future of the knowledge management (KM) discipline. We propose to develop a holistic model that will depict professionals' perceptions of this issue: the combined perceptions of both KM consultants and knowledge managers. The proposed qualitative research will be based on three research tools: Semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus groups, and content analysis. The data will be analyzed using a thematic analysis method based on the grounded theory approach. We collected preliminary empirical evidence from international KM experts during 2020. The findings revealed a remarkable variety of issues that exist at the core of the KM discipline. These issues include the role and purpose of KM in knowledge-intensive organizations, the implications of the existence or absence of KM, and views about future avenues for its development. Our intention is to explore these issues further by expanding the research to other KM professionals. Through this, we hope to assist in the positioning of the discipline in the age of knowledge. This research may contribute significantly to both the theoretical and practical aspects of KM. Its uniqueness is reflected in the voices of KM professionals. We foresee that our research will enable a better understanding of the evolution of KM as a discipline, its contemporary role, and its future possibilities.
VINE Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems, 2020
This study aims to identify the risks associated with the lack of optimal knowledge management (K... more This study aims to identify the risks associated with the lack of optimal knowledge management (KM) in knowledge-intensive organizations and delves into understanding their severity. In doing so, the authors explored the significance attributed to these issues by international KM experts. A case method was chosen. The study began with semi-structured in-depth interviews and continued with focus groups as part of the qualitative research paradigm. The data was analyzed using a thematic analysis method, based on the grounded theory approach. The findings provide empirical evidence for a set of risks faced by organizations in a reality where organizational knowledge is managed poorly. The study finds that, in the experts' view, the risks associated with knowledge constitute a clear catalyst for initiating and investing efforts to manage organizational knowledge. In addition, their severity is usually understood only after the occurrence of a business or organizational crisis related to knowledge. This pioneering research contributes to empirical knowledge through an unexplored scientific field. The uniqueness of this research is also reflected in the voices of KM professionals. The authors extended the literature on knowledge risks, taking a broad perspective of a variety of organizations from different sectors. In doing so, the study also contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of KM. The study has implications on the practical level in view of deepening the understanding of the severity of the risk in the absence of optimal KM in knowledge-intensive organizations.
This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in v... more This study aims to examine the place and future of the Knowledge Management (KM) discipline, in view of the claims of its decline. In doing so, we explored the meanings attributed by international KM experts regarding statements made about the death of the discipline, or at the very least, its illness. A case method was chosen. The study was conducted through fifteen semi-structured in-depth interviews, as part of the qualitative research paradigm. The findings provide evidence not only of the vitality of the field, but also of its significant growth and impressive evolutionary development since it was founded. The Findings section presents a snapshot of KM experts' perception of the source of the pessimistic statements about the discipline and offer significant insights into the question of where this field is going. We find that the future of KM lies in developing automated mechanisms for knowledge flow that rely on machine learning tools, artificial intelligence, and advanced cognitive capabilities. Furthermore, we ponder the possibility of a rebranding of KM, given the experts' feeling that narrow, partial, or misconceived conceptions about it are prevalent. The importance of this pioneering research is reflected in the adoption of a critical-skeptical approach, which is almost completely absent from the KM literature. The uniqueness of this research is also reflected in the voices of KM professionals. In addition to the theoretical contribution, this study has implications on the practical level regarding the necessity of the KM profession and the necessity for further empirical research in the field.
In the complex mosaic of the digital age, the tactical incorporation of artificial intelligence (... more In the complex mosaic of the digital age, the tactical incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) within knowledge management (KM) is revealed as a central business component of technology management. The current study aims to clarify the intersection between KM and AI in organizational contexts. Specifically, this paper represents a preliminary step to investigate the potential impacts of AI on KM research and practice. Building on a database we created from Scopus, we shine a spotlight on trends in pertinent peer-reviewed scientific articles published in the last decade (2013-2023) on the KM-AI nexus. In addition, the paper presents an extended systematic analysis of literature, which synthesizes theoretical and empirical works conducted to date on this topic. Through a review of the available studies, we strive to shed light on effective KM frameworks and strategies in the era of AI. As extant research in the literature is largely theoretical, we propose to conduct empirical research on AI technologies in core KM processes such as acquisition, documentation, sharing, and application of knowledge. In addition, we recognize that the challenges and barriers to implementing AI in KM systems are not in focus and deserve to ignite further research. The anticipated contributions from such inquiries promise not only to augment the corpus of knowledge within the discipline, but also to furnish KM practitioners with the insights necessary for the crafting of efficacious systems. This research marks the advent of a transformative scholarly epoch, wherein the harmonious integration of KM and AI emerges as the bedrock of organizational ingenuity and strategic acumen. It distinguishes itself from prior works by pinpointing knowledge gaps in the synergy between disciplines and underscores the imperative for future research to bridge these lacunae.
Knowledge Hubs (KHs) are centralized repositories that consolidate a diverse array of information... more Knowledge Hubs (KHs) are centralized repositories that consolidate a diverse array of information and resources into a single, accessible location. These hubs are specifically designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of call center operations. By integrating advanced search algorithms and machine learning capabilities, KHs provide a unified access point to critical data, enabling call center agents to swiftly retrieve the information needed to resolve customer inquiries accurately and efficiently. Despite their potential, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the measurement of KHs in service and support centers, particularly with respect to empirical studies. This study aims to identify the key performance indicators (KPIs) evaluated in call centers in relation to the successful implementation of KHs. Participant observation was conducted in three service and support centers belonging to large organizations: a financial institution, a government office, and a technology company. The results highlight KPIs that emphasize the role of KHs in promoting a more collaborative and informed work environment. ECKM 2024: 25th European Conference on Knowledge Management, 5-6 September 2024. Invited Poster
Taxonomies are controlled vocabularies and multidimensional frameworks for organizing and classif... more Taxonomies are controlled vocabularies and multidimensional frameworks for organizing and classifying content. This study is the first to examine the meanings chief knowledge officers (CKOs) ascribe to corporate taxonomy mapping for enabling sustainable performance-driven knowledge management (KM). Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the research corpus comprised in-depth interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and cyber-ethnography. The findings underscore the essential role of investing resources in systematic taxonomy management as a cornerstone for attaining excellence in KM. Empirical evidence is provided for the critical importance of consistent taxonomies in establishing standardized terminology, facilitating systematic knowledge retrieval, and streamlining access within KM systems. Insight is provided into the constraints of contemporary technological advancements, including the capabilities of auto-tagging and classification through artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) techniques. We underscore the nuanced interaction between human cognition and automated human-like capabilities in taxonomic classification, stressing the importance of embracing a balanced leadership socio-technical approach to the dynamic development of taxonomies. Furthermore, the study proposes promising avenues for future research to enhance the depth of inquiry into this subject matter.
InSITE 2024: Informing Science + IT Education Conferences, 2024
Aim/Purpose: The study aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between Organizational Learni... more Aim/Purpose: The study aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between Organizational Learning (OL) and Knowledge Management (KM), two pivotal organizational capabilities whose interplay remains enigmatic. This study ventures into the depths of this relationship, seeking to demystify the interplay between the structured, strategic management of knowledge and the more fluid, organic process of learning within an organization. Background: Organizational knowledge dynamics pivot on the axis of individual and collective learning processes. KM refers to a multidisciplinary approach to achieving organizational objectives by making the best use of knowledge. The collaborative knowledge culture forms the bedrock of effective OL, which, alongside KM, constitutes essential organizational competencies. As such, KM is inherently intertwined with OL, as both aim to harness intellectual capital and foster an environment conducive to continuous improvement and innovation. Yet, the nexus between OL and KM is shrouded in ambiguity, posing a conundrum that this research seeks to unravel, especially as emerging technologies reshape the landscape of knowledge sharing. Methodology: Employing interpretive and inductive qualitative approaches, this study gathered insights through 13 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with Human Capital Management (HCM) experts. Content analysis emerged as the principal analytical tool, processing the rich qualitative data to distill meaningful patterns and themes. Contribution: This research contributes to the theoretical and practical understanding of OL and KM affinities. It underscores the necessity of recognizing the complementary nature of these fields within organizational structures. Findings: Since the advent of the concept “learning in the flow of work,” the domain of OL has increasingly integrated key aspects from the KM discipline. The study reveals that while OL and KM are distinct domains, they are also symbiotic, thriving on each other's strengths. This interdependence is underscored by their shared focus on knowledge resource creation and intellectual capital cultivation. Often, a singular corporate entity oversees both OL and KM, indicating a convergence within organizational development paradigms. Notably, the overlapping activities between OL and KM, such as discussion forums and knowledge exchanges, underscore the challenge of demarcating disciplinary boundaries in practice. The integration of sophisticated technologies such as AI-driven analytics, cloud computing, and collaborative software has been instrumental in facilitating this convergence. Recommendations for Practitioners: Practitioners are encouraged to cultivate environments where OL and KM merge effortlessly, leveraging their synergies to bolster organizational effectiveness and the richness of intellectual resources. Recommendations for Researchers: Future research should delve into the nuanced distinctions and commonalities between the roles of learning and knowledge managers across industries, aiming to refine the theoretical frameworks that underpin these roles. Researchers should also explore the transformative potential of technology in defining these roles and in the execution of OL and KM strategies. Impact on Society: By clarifying the OL and KM interrelationship, this study paves the way for more informed organizational practices that can contribute to societal advancement through improved knowledge dissemination and learning methodologies. Future Research: Subsequent inquiries may investigate the modalities of training content accessibility at the point of need, aligning with the imperatives of real-time, on-demand learning models that resonate with contemporary work dynamics.
InSITE 2024: Informing Science + IT Education Conferences, 2024
Aim/Purpose Given the widely acknowledged significance of intellectual capital (IC) for organizat... more Aim/Purpose Given the widely acknowledged significance of intellectual capital (IC) for organizational success, managing knowledge assets remains a multifaceted challenge. This study investigates the role of human and social factors in intellectual capital management (ICM) within businesses. Background. A company’s IC is the collective embodiment of knowledge resources that provide a strategic advantage. The literature often blurs the lines between ICM and knowledge management (KM) due to their shared focus on knowledge and processes, leading to a conflation of the terms within certain discourse communities. Methodology. The study utilized grounded theory methodology, conducting semi-structured in-depth interviews and organizing two focus groups with 52 industry KM professionals. Additionally, cyber-ethnography included a compilation of 20,349 posts and comments from two Facebook communities dedicated to this domain practitioners. Contribution This study expands the current understanding by positing that a conducive organizational culture, characterized by a supportive environment for knowledge exchange, is instrumental in the successful implementation of ICM. In light of the emphasis on the human and social elements, the findings also contribute to and enrich the discipline of change management. Findings. The incorporation of tangible technological tools within corporate settings for the purposes of ICM often garners significant attention. Nonetheless, a consistent theme emerging from the study’s results is the affirmation by participants that the pivotal entity in organizational KM is the human individual. It is recognized that the seamless flow of knowledge among employees, teams, and divisions is predicated on the capacity to unearth the latent knowledge possessed by knowledge workers. Concurrently, the act of sharing knowledge among peers is encumbered by substantial emotional and behavioral challenges. Consequently, it is becoming increasingly acknowledged that in a knowledge-centric society, the efficacy of ICM is profoundly shaped by an organizational culture that is fosters to knowledge. Recommendations for Practitioners. As part of building a learning organization, it is necessary to adopt a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to ICM. Practitioners must recognize the importance of organizational culture for the successful assimilation of processes of creation, preservation, exchange, accessibility, reuse, and leveraging of knowledge. Considering that these may also exist in informal social interaction, it would be prudent to promote intra-organizational initiatives that foster relationships of trust and commitment between employees. Recommendations for Researchers In consideration of the intricate interplay between the ‘knowledge is power’ adage and individual motivations, this research advocates for interdisciplinary inquiry that integrates behavioral and social science theories. The proposed research will delve into the psychological underpinnings, encompassing both aversion and incentive mechanisms, that steer knowledge sharing behaviors within organizational settings. The ultimate aim of this inquiry is to devise strategies or interventions that bolster a culture of positive and cooperative knowledge exchange. Impact on Society. The research findings enhance societal comprehension of the human and social dynamics that may either facilitate or impede the pursuit of excellence in KM. Future Research. In the evolving landscape of the knowledge economy, the adoption of ICM practices is pivotal for enhancing organizational competencies, driving business performance, and fostering innovation. Future research should concentrate on exploring robust change management strategies that engage employees effectively and mitigate resistance to KM initiatives.
InSITE 2024: Informing Science + IT Education Conferences, 2024
Aim/Purpose. This exploratory study seeks to surface a richer understanding regarding the direct ... more Aim/Purpose. This exploratory study seeks to surface a richer understanding regarding the direct experience of software developers (SDs) working in sprints as part of the adoption of agile methodology principles. Background. The software development industry is increasingly adopting agile development methods. In the agile methodology, the delivery cycle is broken down into sprints, also known as iterations. There is relatively little empirical knowledge produced to date on agile software development methods. Specifically, the SDs’ authentic work experience in agile sprints is a subject that is missing from the literature. Methodology. This paper presents results based on data collected through preliminary in-depth interviews with SDs working in research and development teams of Israeli high-tech companies. As a heuristic device for describing their experience, an interpretive phenomenological perspective was adopted. Content analysis was used as a central methodology to analyze the data. Findings. The preliminary results present the ways of managing a development project in sprints, put a spotlight on the value of the agile method, and provide a unique glimpse of its challenges. Contribution. Our work adds to the growing body of research investigating the SDs’ perceptions. The preliminary results develop the theoretical and practical knowledge related to managing agile sprints, with reference to optimal communication, monitoring, control, and knowledge sharing among SDs in agile projects.
Twenty-fourth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations, 2024
Information plays a strategic role in supporting organizational processes and has a significant i... more Information plays a strategic role in supporting organizational processes and has a significant impact on business performance. In order to increase employee productivity and generate positive organizational results, organizations implement information systems (IS). IS are one of the most substantial resources that profoundly effect the organizations' survival and success. Many employers adapted their organizational activities to maintain social distance during COVID-19 pandemic by investing in digital tools, with the potential to allow continued remote work even after the crisis. Many believe the digital transformation (DT) at the workplace has accelerated in response to COVID-19. This acceleration has the potential to mitigate the vulnerability of organizations if and when the next crisis appears. This study puts a spotlight on the human capital (HC) experiences regarding the enablers and inhibitors associated with working in flexible employment models upon the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. The paper presented at the Twenty-fourth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations; The Future We Want: Organizational Responsibilities for Climate Responses. Lusiada Research Center on Social Work and Social Intervention, Luisada University, Lisbon, Portugal and Virtual. July 3-5, 2024.
Knowledge Management (KM) has become a pivotal discipline in management science, vital for enhanc... more Knowledge Management (KM) has become a pivotal discipline in management science, vital for enhancing organizational performance and securing competitive advantage. This importance is underscored by its intrinsic link to organizational intelligence, which encompasses the application of KM concepts for navigating the complexities of the modern business landscape. Yet, a schism persists between KM practitioners and scholars, with organizational contributions to KM research dwindling. This study aims to bridge this divide by articulating the narratives of KM professionals and analyzing their perspectives to construct a conceptual framework for the discipline's trajectory. The study, anchored in a qualitative-constructivist paradigm, conducted an extensive analysis of KM practices within knowledge-intensive organizations. This involved conducting in-depth interviews and focus groups with fifty-two recognized experts in the field of KM, complemented by a web ethnography of two Facebook groups specifically focused on organizational KM discourse. The investigation revealed significant disparities in the role of KM across hierarchical structures. Definitions of a knowledge manager's responsibilities, job content, and operational framework varied widely. The demarcation between KM and related fields often appeared ambiguous, exacerbating the challenge of a prevalent lack of KM awareness and robust public relations efforts. The data underscores an imperative to enhance KM professionals' leadership and marketing competencies, thereby affirming the field's significance to organizations. Additionally, significant obstacles have been uncovered in measuring and evaluating the effectiveness of KM performance. The research proposes a multi-faceted holistic model designed to resonate with the evolution of the KM discipline. This model serves as an actionable framework for strategic KM initiative planning and success evaluation. Theoretically, our primary contribution is the empirical evidence sourced directly from KM professionals. Moreover, we spotlight the discipline's fundamental challenges and tensions—areas previously underexplored. The study advances the comprehension of knowledge risks and their gravity, underscoring their management integration into overarching organizational risk strategies. We present novel insights into the challenges of persuading senior management to invest in KM, particularly due to difficulties in appraising its true worth. Our research reveals a critical ambiguity in the conceptualization, delineation, and definition of KM, alongside the tangible repercussions of this indistinctness. Reports of a disconnect between academia and KM practice warrant earnest consideration, suggesting a need for closer alignment between theoretical exploration and practical application. The paper was presented at "AMP 2024 Conference: Academia Meet Practice". Online. June 28-29 2024.
This paper puts a unique spotlight on key aspects related to information be-havior in organizatio... more This paper puts a unique spotlight on key aspects related to information be-havior in organizations during the “new normal.” Specifically, the study sought to examine how much time the workforce spends searching for in-formation they need for work, and how the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak affected the perception of this time. We also investigate the relationship be-tween organizational information search times and information management (IM) quality during the pandemic. A web-based questionnaire was distributed during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in four government offices in Israel, and was completed by 716 employees. The results show that since the pandemic outbreak, 22.34% of the respondents spend about half a work-ing day a week and 10.47% spend one and a half workdays a week on in-formation searches. Additionally, 31.42% agree strongly or completely agree that COVID-19 has increased the organizational information search time. The long search times have been found to be significantly linked to the de-cline in IM quality during the pandemic. The current research may increase the recognition of the importance of the development of technological tools to facilitate speedy information retrieval and improve IM performance. https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/items/129980
The Twentieth International Conference on Technology, Knowledge, and Society, 2024
COVID-19 was an unprecedented disruptive event that accelerated the shift to remote work and enco... more COVID-19 was an unprecedented disruptive event that accelerated the shift to remote work and encouraged the widespread adoption of digital tools in organizations. As a result of the rapid spread of the global pandemic, daily routine business activities were temporarily stopped and the employment market experienced massive disruptions. This study focuses on understanding employees' information behavior following COVID-19. Its purpose was to examine whether and how the pandemic affected the use of information sources and storage devices in organizations. The results reveal that despite the frequent transition to flexible employment mechanisms, employees' preferred information sources and storage devices have not changed significantly since the COVID-19 outbreak. Specifically, personal folders on the computer and mail folders in the email box were reported as both information sources (73.88%, 73.74% respectively) and storage devices (75.51%, 67.88% respectively) particularly popular during COVID-19. Naturally for the adoption of a restrictive policy of social distancing, we find that there is a 7% downward trend in turning to colleagues to obtain information. With the transition to a digitization-oriented work environment, a 14% increase in the use of the Internet in pursuance of organizational information was detected during the pandemic, while an 11% decrease in organizational information storage on hard copies was detected. This study provides a unique opportunity for a better understanding of the conduct in remote work environments and encourages future studies to continue researching information behavior in the “new normal” in organizations. The Twentieth International Conference on Technology, Knowledge, and Society; People, Education, and Technology for a Sustainable Future. Polytechnic University of Valencia, Spain and virtual. March 7-8, 2024.
The Twenty-fourth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations, 2024
The COVID-19 pandemic led to the temporary halt of daily routine business activities and imposed ... more The COVID-19 pandemic led to the temporary halt of daily routine business activities and imposed forceful disruptions in the work environment. Many organizations were required to rethink regular business processes and to provide training and equipment to enable their employees to work efficiently at home. In many ways, the multiple implications of the COVID-19 pandemic have not yet been fully unfolded. The information behavior of employees at work during the crisis has yet to be studied in depth. This study examines, for the first time, the differences in the success, speed, and ease of organizational information retrieval before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results enrich the empirical knowledge related to the employees' information behavior during a crisis in general, and to the practices of digital work in particular. In an era of accelerated digital transformation, IT managers should consider different strategies for more successful implementation of digital tools to retrieve information quickly, simply, and efficiently. The Twentieth International Conference on Technology, Knowledge, and Society; People, Education, and Technology for a Sustainable Future. Polytechnic University of Valencia, Spain and virtual. March 7-8, 2024.
the 4th International Conference on Research in Human Resource Management (ICRHRM) , 2024
In the aftermath of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the seismic shifts triggered by the COVI... more In the aftermath of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the seismic shifts triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the labor market has undergone a significant transformation, compelling a reassessment of workforce competencies. This study delivers a comprehensive analysis of the emerging trends in reskilling and upskilling initiatives, which are pivotal for adapting to these shifts. Employing text mining techniques through Voyant Tools, we meticulously examined a corpus of 68 academic articles from the Web of Science database, all related to workforce development. Our methodological framework encompassed a thorough statistical analysis to distill and scrutinize term frequencies, inter-term relationships, and the overarching sentiment within the scholarly dialogue. The outcomes of this inquiry provide a sophisticated understanding of the prevailing academic terrain, accentuating the central themes and lacunae in the extant research corpus. The revelations from this preliminary study make a significant contribution to the domain of human capital development. The findings lay down an empirical groundwork for future studies in this sphere, poised to furnish strategic insights crucial for crafting robust career development programs. By illuminating the imperative of perpetual learning and skill enhancement, this paper adds to the conversation on equipping a resilient workforce, ready to excel in the dynamic, tech-centric economy that lies ahead. https://www.dpublication.com/proceeding/4th-ICRHRM/#Table-of-Contents, Proceedings of the International Conference on Research in Human Resource Management Vol. 1, Issue. 1, 2024, pp. 1-10, https://doi.org/10.33422/icrhrm.v1i1.169
Proceedings of the Association for Information Science and Technology, 2023
This paper proposes a practical seven-layer model that provides a holistic framework for creation... more This paper proposes a practical seven-layer model that provides a holistic framework for creation an optimal foundation for organizational knowledge management (KM). The research corpus consists of three data collection tools; In the physical field we conducted personal interviews and a focus groups with 52 KM professionals. In the online arena we conducted a web ethnography, in which we surveyed tens of thousands of posts and comments which were posted in two virtual KM groups on the Facebook social network. The research is based on the qualitative-constructivist paradigm. The data were analyzed according to the thematic analysis method, relying on the grounded theory approach. The proposed conceptual framework contributes to the empirical knowledge of the KM field, and may stand to guide practitioners in successful implementation of KM practices in organizations.
InSITE 2023: Informing Science & Information Technology Education Conferences, an Informing Science Institute (ISI) conference. Informing Science Institute, 2023
“The Frequency of Information Systems Use Following the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Organizational-Stra... more “The Frequency of Information Systems Use Following the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Organizational-Strategic Perspective”. Paper presented at: InSITE 2023: Informing Science & Information Technology Education Conferences, an Informing Science Institute (ISI) conference. Informing Science Institute. Jul 5-6, 2023, online (virtual), p.8. Accepted March 30, 2023. https://doi.org/10.28945/5136.
15th Annual Health Policy Conference; Information, Data, Innovation, and Everything in Between. The Israel National Institute for Health Policy Research (NIHP). David InterContinental Hotel, Tel Aviv, Israel, 2023
“Data Mining for Online Health Communities; Analyzing Characteristics of Asynchronous Social Inte... more “Data Mining for Online Health Communities; Analyzing Characteristics of Asynchronous Social Interaction in Routine and Emergency Situations”. Paper presented at: 15th Annual Health Policy Conference; Information, Data, Innovation, and Everything in Between. The Israel National Institute for Health Policy Research (NIHP). David InterContinental Hotel, Tel Aviv, Israel. May 31, 2023. P.59 in https://storage.googleapis.com/forms-wizard-biz-uploads/forms-wizard/19/ckeditor_assets/attachments/10423/ea124a81370b8bc5ce739849015d79774f678ba6.pdf.
The study examines the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the characteristics of the asynch... more The study examines the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the characteristics of the asynchronous social interaction that occurs in "Camoni"; An Israeli health-centered Online Social Network (OSN), with 40 online communities managed by therapeutic experts. Analytical analysis was applied on big data we collected, with more than 30,800 users and more than 360,000 posts and comments received over more than a decade. The findings reveal that with the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, there was an increase in new members joining "Camoni" and a significant growth in the number of publications dealing with mental and community content. Specifically, we are seeing an acute increase in discourse in the "depression and anxiety" community during COVID-19, with much of it originating from new joiners. Gender differences in behavior in the online environment were found, when compared to men, women join the health-centered OSN more, are more active in communities dealing with mental issues and community, and post more in the "depression and anxiety" community before and during COVID-19. The results lay a solid foundation for further research in relation to gender gaps, vulnerable populations during crises, and the long-term psychological implications of the devastating pandemic.
Poster presented at: iConference 2023: Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Monash University, and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Onsite Academic Program in Barcelona. March 13 - 17, 2023 and March 27 - 29, 2023, iSchools.
https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/items/126422
22nd National Conference on Industrial Engineering and Management; Leverage complex technologies and systems in an era of global crisis. Lago, Rishon LeZion, Israel, 2021
Is it possible and appropriate to measure ROI for KM activities? Paper presented at: 22nd Nationa... more Is it possible and appropriate to measure ROI for KM activities? Paper presented at: 22nd National Conference on Industrial Engineering and Management; Leverage complex technologies and systems in an era of global crisis. Lago, Rishon LeZion, Israel. June 2, 2021.
AI in Biology and Medicine Conference: A collaborative project between the Jerusalem College of Technology (JCT) and the Institute of Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), Jerusalem, Israel, 2023
Health-centered Online Social Networks (OSNs) were created to provide patients with knowledge and... more Health-centered Online Social Networks (OSNs) were created to provide patients with knowledge and support to manage their health more independently. They allow members to share experiences and communicate with individuals dealing with similar health problems. In this paper we describe how we built a big data from the largest health-centered OSN in Israel. We offer insights into the characteristics of activity in this OSN upon the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Poster presented at: AI in Biology and Medicine Conference: A collaborative project between the Jerusalem College of Technology (JCT) and the Institute of Radioprotection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), Jerusalem, Israel. February 14-15, 2023.
The Seventeenth International Conference on Technology, Knowledge, and Society; Considering Viral Technologies: Pandemic-Driven Opportunities and Challenges. University of Melbourne – Melbourne, Australia, 2021
The global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic affected the world of employment. As a result o... more The global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic affected the world of employment. As a result of the new reality, private and public organizations in local and global markets chose to adopt a new employment model based on hybrid activity. This model, which may be suitable for the future workforce, combines the employment of manpower both within and outside the office (i.e. at home). Studies, which focused on organizational aspects of the COVID-19 crisis focused on their means of survival, the preservation of human assets and productivity in what has been coined "the new normal", the post-COVID-19 era. In this paper, we present our proposal for an exploratory research study. The goal of the research is to deepen the understanding of the effects and ramifications of the COVID-19 crisis on knowledge management (KM) in knowledge-intensive organizations. Paper presented at: The Seventeenth International Conference on Technology, Knowledge, and Society; Considering Viral Technologies: Pandemic-Driven Opportunities and Challenges. University of Melbourne – Melbourne, Australia. April 8-9, 2021.
CoLIS11 – Conceptions of Library and Information Science, 2022
This exploratory research examines the characteristics of asynchronous social interactions, which... more This exploratory research examines the characteristics of asynchronous social interactions, which occur in an Israeli health-centered OSN. The purpose of the research is to examine differences in gender behavior in the discourse conducted in the health communities, as well as the changes in the nature and scope of such interactions in the shadow of the COVID-19 crisis. Poster presented at: CoLIS11 – Conceptions of Library and Information Science. The Department of Archives, Library and Information Science at Oslo Metropolitan University. May 29 – June 1, 2022.
This case study stands as a pioneering exploration that delves into the development and examinati... more This case study stands as a pioneering exploration that delves into the development and examination of a conceptual framework tied to the value of knowledge capture and its management in knowledge-intensive organizations. The findings enrich the comprehension of the business value, underscore the positive contributions, and highlight the enhanced organizational outcomes that knowledge management (KM) facilitates within these entities.
Knowledge management (KM) has emerged as a dominant field in management science, one which is ess... more Knowledge management (KM) has emerged as a dominant field in management science, one which is essential to improving performance and achieving differentiation and competitive advantage. A disconnect exists, however, between the professionals working in this field and the researchers studying it. Indeed, the rate of contribution of organizations to KM research has dropped significantly over the years. The KM academic landscape, in turn, has stopped encouraging the active collaboration of practitioners in research that can be relevant to both theory and practice. Through revealing the narrative of KM professionals and an in-depth analysis of their perspectives, we hope to bridge this gap. The current research strives to develop a conceptual framework for the position, development and future of the KM discipline, one that considers the interpretations, meanings, beliefs, and perceptions related to this field. We examine the current position of the discipline in the age of knowledge, shed light on its development since it was founded, and delve into possible directions for its future. In examining the field from a critical-skeptical perspective and from an executive point of view, we endeavor to develop a holistic, coherent, and harmonious model for KM.
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Papers by Maayan Nakash
Conference Presentations by Maayan Nakash
This study puts a spotlight on the human capital (HC) experiences regarding the enablers and inhibitors associated with working in flexible employment models upon the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.
The paper presented at the Twenty-fourth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations; The Future We Want:
Organizational Responsibilities for Climate Responses. Lusiada Research Center on Social Work and Social Intervention, Luisada University, Lisbon, Portugal and Virtual. July 3-5, 2024.
This study puts a spotlight on the human capital (HC) experiences regarding the enablers and inhibitors associated with working in flexible employment models upon the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.
The paper presented at the Twenty-fourth International Conference on Knowledge, Culture, and Change in Organizations; The Future We Want:
Organizational Responsibilities for Climate Responses. Lusiada Research Center on Social Work and Social Intervention, Luisada University, Lisbon, Portugal and Virtual. July 3-5, 2024.
The paper was presented at "AMP 2024 Conference: Academia Meet Practice". Online. June 28-29 2024.
Poster presented at: iConference 2023: Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Monash University, and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Onsite Academic Program in Barcelona. March 13 - 17, 2023 and March 27 - 29, 2023, iSchools.
https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/items/126422
Poster presented at: CoLIS11 – Conceptions of Library and Information Science. The Department of Archives, Library and Information Science at Oslo Metropolitan University. May 29 – June 1, 2022.