As part of our endorsement and awareness-raising for open-access research, we will share free knowledge management journals on our website. First up: the Electronic Journal of Knowledge Management.

The Electronic Journal of Knowledge Management (EJKM) publishes research on topics relevant to the study, implementation and management of knowledge management and intellectual capital and other related fields of study.

The journal contributes to the development of both theory and practice in the field of knowledge management. The journal accepts academically robust papers, topical articles, communications, book reviews and case studies that contribute to the area of research in, and practice of knowledge management. All papers a double blind reviewed.

There is a lot of great content in the different editions of this journal. To give you an idea on what kind of articles are published we’ve shared a selection below.

But be sure to check out the complete journal here.

Selection of articles

Knowledge Management and Higher Education: A UK Case Study

Authors: Desire Joy Cranfield, John Taylor

Abstract

This paper presents the initial findings of a case study conducted at seven Higher Education Institutions within the United Kingdom. The Case Study utilizes Stankosky’s Knowledge Management (KM) pillars to enterprise learning, leadership, organization, technology and learning as a lens to investigate and understand Knowledge Management practices and perceptions within Higher Education Institutions, looking at challenges of implementation within this sector.

Higher Education Institutions within the United Kingdom are very complex institutions, with diverse backgrounds, history, culture, resources and missions. The University presents itself in today’s knowledge economy with a dichotomy of priorities, one which aims to provide quality teaching and research activity, and the other, to ensure effective and efficient management and administration within an increasingly competitive market. Being a service, non‑profit organization ensures that the values of scholarship remain a very important aspect of its mission; yet, the external environment within which HEIs conduct their business today is rapidly changing, forcing HEIs to reflect on how they do ‘business’ given the external pressures they face.

This case study uses the Grounded Theory methodology to begin to unpack the issues related to the implementation of Knowledge Management within this context. It focuses on two aspects of the case study — the characteristics of universities and academics that hinder or promote the implementation of KM, and the perceptions of Knowledge Management and its challenges for implementation within the HEI sector. Initial findings are presented.

The Concept of Knowledge in KM: a Relational Model

Author: Colin Reilly

Abstract

This paper reports progress in research into the applicability of the knowledge management (KM) paradigm to third sector organizations. Case studies and an action research project are described. Although KM techniques are in use, resource priorities, program funding, and dispersed authority inhibit KM in these organizations. There is little intentional consideration of the relationships between the values held by these organizations and the data gathered from experience.

A relational knowledge domain model is proposed that shows how knowledge is derived from observing real or imagined universes, is stored in knowledge artifacts, and is operated on by natural and designed processes to realise future states of the universe being observed. This model is intended to promote a more holistic approach to knowledge and its management in values driven organizations but can be applied in any organization or community of practice.

In Search of Alternative Metaphors for Knowledge; Inspiration from Symbolism

Authors: Daniel Andriessen, Marien Van Den Boom

Abstract

Conceptual metaphors play a vital role in our ability to think in abstract terms like knowledge. Metaphors structure and give meaning to the concept of knowledge. They hide and highlight certain characteristics. The choice of metaphor when reasoning about knowledge is therefore of vital importance for knowledge management (KM). This paper explores the possibility of introducing new knowledge metaphors to the field of KM. Based on a ‘wish list’ of characteristics of knowledge they want to highlight, the authors choose to explore the Knowledge as a Journey metaphor as a new metaphor for knowledge. This results in new insights regarding knowledge sharing, acquisition, retention, and innovation.

Distributed Knowledge Management in Virtual Organizations: the ‘Social’ Experience Factory

Author: Demosthenes Akoumianakis

Abstract

This paper considers knowledge management functions as carried out by distributed virtual teams involved in the compilation of information‑based products using dedicated and domain‑specific computer‑ mediated practices and tools. We are concerned with two primary tasks, namely depositing shared assets and assembling information‑based artefacts by appropriating the benefits of virtual networking. Moreover, these tasks are considered from the perspective of the Social Experience Factory (SEF) a platform enabling rich collaborative interactions between geographically dispersed members of communities of practice.

The SEF incorporates domain‑specific workflows and several model‑based tools to facilitate systematic accumulation and reuse of collaborative artefacts. An account of these is provided by discussing current implementation in the context of a pilot application.

Value Creation Role of Knowledge Management: a Developing Country Perspective

Authors: Khusro P. Malik, Sobiah Malik

Abstract

Knowledge is seen as a driver for the definition and development of an organizational strategy and a key determinant of sustainable organizational competitiveness. The shift to knowledge as the primary source of value means that knowledge plays a key role in the organizational effectiveness.

This paper highlights the importance of developing and managing the intangible assets and intellectual capital of organizations to create distinctive and sustainable value. It sets forth the concept of Knowledge Circles to enhance activities along the Knowledge Value Chain. Some of the factors that will impact knowledge management initiatives in Pakistani organizations have also been identified.