ifkad articles

Knowledge domains and types and tools: an interrelation attempt

Dmitry Kudryavtsev, Anna Menshikova

The described study represents the first results of INNOVARRA project (Innovations in Company Knowledge Management: Typology, Methodology and Recommendations) that is supported by Russian Science Foundation for 2015-2017. It aims to identify and develop methods and tools of knowledge management (KM) which are the most appropriate for particular domains and types of knowledge of the company, as well as have the greatest impact on the results of the company. The paper introduces the “triad” idea of the interaction between knowledge domains, types or properties of knowledge and methods or tools of KM based on the ideas about the feasibility of differentiation of KM methods and tools. Research methodology for these ideas is based on literature review. The paper also provides an overview of the development of KM methods and tools in several domains, namely: management of customer knowledge and knowledge about the products and/or services, knowledge in the field of operations management, strategic management and organizational development. This research puts in evidence on the issue of which KM methods and tools are suitable for the particular knowledge domain and type. A generalized knowledge map was suggested in order to structure knowledge domains. A new knowledge typology has been formed. The key feature of the typology is that it includes only the knowledge types and properties which essentially influence the choice of KM methods and tools. New taxonomy of KM methods and tools was suggested. Systematization of studies, which describes interrelations between knowledge types, domains and KM tools was provided. The suggested description of interrelations between knowledge types/properties, domains and KM methods and tools may help novice knowledge managers to select suitable KM methods and tools for different knowledge domains and types. Such a selection can be applicable either for the whole company or for different functional areas and business lines. The description of interrelations also can be easily transformed into rule base for intelligent service for KM tool selection.

IN: Proceedings IFKAD 2016 – Towards a New Architecture of Knowledge: Big Data, Culture and Creativity
PP: 2200-2211