Individual Assignment: Role of ICT in Knowledge Management

Objective: To analyze and critically evaluate the role of Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) in knowledge management.

Instructions:

1. Conduct a thorough literature review by reading at least three relevant articles on the role of
ICT in knowledge management.

Prepare an individual written assignment that analyze and critically evaluate the role of
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in knowledge management
comprehensively discusses the following aspects:

i. Define knowledge management and its importance in today's organizations.

ii. Explain how ICT has revolutionized knowledge management practices.
iii. Discuss the specific tools and technologies used in ICT-enabled knowledge
management.
iv. Analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with the integration of
ICT in knowledge management.
v. Provide examples of organizations that have successfully implemented ICT-
driven knowledge management strategies.

2. Support your discussion with relevant evidence from the literature.

3. Submission: Submit your written assignment by December 23, 2023.

4. Your assignment will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

A. Depth of understanding and analysis of the subject matter

B. Clarity of expression and organization of ideas
C. Relevance and application of theoretical concepts to real-world examples
D. Effective use of evidence and citations
E. Overall quality of writing and presentation
I. Knowledge Management and its Role in Modern Businesses:

Knowledge management (KM) is the systematic process of capturing, organizing, and

utilizing an organization's intellectual assets to enhance its efficiency, innovation, and
decision-making. In today's fast-paced business environment, where information is a valuable
asset, KM plays a pivotal role in creating a competitive edge. It involves the identification,
creation, distribution, and application of knowledge within an organization to achieve its
strategic objectives.

Relevant Evidence: According to Dalkir (2005), KM is crucial for leveraging an

organization's intellectual capital, fostering innovation, and enhancing overall performance.

II. Transformation of Knowledge Management Techniques by ICT:

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has revolutionized traditional knowledge

management practices. The digitalization of information and the advent of collaborative
technologies have significantly impacted how organizations manage knowledge. ICT enables
real-time access to information, supports collaborative platforms, and facilitates the creation
of knowledge-sharing cultures within organizations. This transformation has led to increased
agility and adaptability in responding to dynamic business challenges.

Relevant Evidence: Research by Alavi and Leidner (2001) highlights the role of ICT in
transforming traditional KM models, emphasizing the shift towards digital platforms for
knowledge creation and sharing.

III. Technology and Tools in ICT-Enabled Knowledge Management:

Several tools and technologies underpin ICT-enabled knowledge management:

1. Knowledge Repositories: Platforms like SharePoint and Confluence serve as

centralized databases for storing and retrieving organizational knowledge.
2. Collaboration Tools: Communication platforms such as Slack and Microsoft Teams
enable real-time collaboration, supporting seamless information sharing among teams.
3. Data Analytics: Tools like Tableau and Power BI facilitate the extraction of
meaningful insights from vast datasets, contributing to informed decision-making.

Relevant Evidence: Studies by Wiig (1997) emphasize the importance of technology-based

repositories and collaboration tools in facilitating KM processes.

IV. Potential and Problems in ICT Integration in Knowledge Management:

Potential:

1. Global Collaboration: ICT fosters collaboration among geographically dispersed

teams, enabling diverse perspectives and expertise.
 2. Efficiency Gains: Automation and digitalization through ICT streamline knowledge
processes, reducing time and effort.

Problems:

1. Security Concerns: The digital nature of ICT raises issues related to data security
and privacy, requiring robust safeguards.
2. Resistance to Change: Employees may resist adopting new technologies, affecting
the successful integration of ICT in KM.

Relevant Evidence: Research by Chua, Goh, and Lee (1999) highlights challenges such as
security concerns and resistance to technological changes in the context of KM.

V. Instances of Successful ICT-Driven Knowledge Management:

1. IBM's Watson AI: IBM utilizes Watson AI for knowledge discovery and decision
support, enhancing innovation and problem-solving capabilities.
2. Google's Internal Platforms: Google encourages employees to use internal
platforms for knowledge-sharing, fostering a culture of continuous learning.
3. Microsoft's Ecosystem: Microsoft's integrated ecosystem, including SharePoint and
Teams, exemplifies successful ICT-driven KM practices.

Relevant Evidence: Case studies on companies like IBM (Ransbotham & Kiron, 2017) and
Google (Davenport, Harris, & Shapiro, 2010) provide evidence of successful implementation
of ICT-driven KM strategies.

In conclusion, the integration of ICT in knowledge management is essential for organizations

aiming to thrive in the digital age. Evidence from literature supports the transformative
impact of ICT on knowledge management processes, showcasing successful instances and
acknowledging challenges that organizations must navigate in this dynamic landscape.