Working Paper Series,
Lund University, Institute of Economic Research

Abstract: This paper investigates several issues regarding the nature, domain, conceptual foundations, and practical challenges of knowledge management and organizational learning. The paper first identifies and contrasts two fundamental philosophical orientations to knowledge management -- the personal knowledge orientation and the organizational knowledge orientation -- and illustrates the distinctive kinds of knowledge management practices that result from the two orientations. It then summarizes three essential organizational processes in knowledge management: (i) maintaining learning loops in all organizational processes, (ii) systematically disseminating knowledge throughout an organization, and (iii) applying knowledge wherever it can be used in an organization. A general model of organizational learning -- the Five Learning Cycles model -- is introduced to represent how individuals, groups, and the overall organization are linked in an organizational learning process. Key challenges in managing each of the Five Learning Cycles are discussed, and examples of appropriate managerial interventions are proposed for each learning cycle. Concluding comments suggest how knowledge management processes reflect a fundamental shift in management thinking and practice from traditional concepts of command and control to more contemporary concepts of facilitation and empowerment.

Keywords: Knowledge management; Organizational learning; Learning cycles

29 pages, April 4, 2005

Full text files

2005-3.pdf  

Download statistics

• Lund University, Institute of Economic Research
• Ordering Working Papers
• Home page for this series

Questions (including download problems) about the papers in this series should be directed to Elsbeth Andersson ()
Report other problems with accessing this service to Sune Karlsson ().

RePEc:hhb:lufewp:2005_003This page generated on 2024-09-13 22:18:22.