Knowledge networking in global organizations: the transfer of knowledge

ABSTRACT

This article focuses on how knowledge can be developed and transferred in multinational organizations, and how 'communities of knowing' can stimulate these knowledge processes through global collaboration supported by information and communication technology (ICT). Former IS research findings regarding virtual collaborative work across geographical and organizational boundaries are reviewed and discussed towards established knowledge and globalization theories. A description of knowledge management initiatives in the telecommunications corporation Ericsson exemplifies the implementation of an explicit knowledge networking strategy where different 'communities of knowing' are the point of effort concerning utilization of the knowledge potential in the entire organization. The analysis indicates that an inter-organizational context for the communities and cross-communities communication increase the complexity and difficulties for knowledge transfer and sharing mechanisms and collaboration.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.4 INFORMATION SYSTEMS APPLICATIONS
      H.4.3 Communications Applications

General Terms:
Human Factors, Management

Keywords:
communities of knowing, globalization, glocal mentality, information and communication technology, knowledge networking, knowledge transfer, modernity