LEARNING-ON-DEMAND WITHIN AN ENTERPRISE SOCIAL NETWORK

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate how employees in a Learning and Development Department of a big consultancy company in Germany are using the company’s Enterprise Social Network for the identification of expertise and the establishment of contacts. The study furthermore aims at identifying challenges the employees are facing in connection with the usage of the network. By conducting interviews, it is aimed at a better understanding of the usefulness of the network for the employees. Theory:Theory: Social Network Theory (SNT), Situated Learning Method:Thematic Analysis Results:The study revealed that employees use the Enterprise Social Network for the identification od expertise in two ways: (1) postings in groups and (2) user’s profiles. However the study also uncovered that the establishment of contacts with them is in many cases not possible. This is due to numerous challenges impinging on employees. The most influential challenges have been identified as the organizational hierarchies and a lack of planning including the absence of clear usage goals and an implementation plan