Implementation of Knowledge Management Innovation

Abstract

Purpose: The described case study was conducted in a Swedish consultancy company and carried the purpose of evaluating the implementation of a newly designed internal knowledge management (KM) solution. Theory: The theoretical framework addressed the topic of situated learning theory and in particular, communities of practice (CoP) that played a part in the design of the KM solution. The evaluation of the KM solution implementation was based on the KM solutions theoretical framework by Becerra-Fernandez and Sabherwal (2010). Method: This study follows an explanatory case study method with an abductive thematic analysis approach to data treatment. Through semi-structured interviews, we evaluated the consultants’ usage of the KM solution and the various determinants that block or promote this usage. As interviews with both consultants and managers took place, authors could evaluate stakeholders' views as well as the engagement of the employees in the process of integration of the new KM innovation. Results: The results of this case study aimed to answer three research questions and through thematic analysis construct a scheme of the innovation implementation process in regard to stakeholder's views. Interviews with managers and consultants revealed various themes that were later compared with the literature. In addition, stakeholder perceptions further added to insights regarding KM in the consultancy company, organisational resilience, and the importance of investing in adaptable KM solutions.