Rethinking knowledge sharing is an essential task, especially for managers. Especially in companies where change processes and complex project structures take place, success depends largely on how knowledge is shared and utilised. The targeted exchange of knowledge supports teams, creates transparency and promotes innovation. KIROI Step 1 is a helpful approach that helps managers to tackle this challenge systematically.
The importance of knowledge sharing for managers
In many companies, inadequate knowledge sharing results in wasted time and duplication of work. Managers are particularly in demand here because they create the culture and structures that promote the transfer of expertise. KIROI Step 1 focusses on creating an open environment that promotes learning. This prevents knowledge from remaining dormant or being lost when personnel change.
For example, a manufacturing company with a clear knowledge strategy creates greater efficiency: the technical department shares proven solutions for frequently occurring machine problems, which minimises downtime. In the service sector, teams benefit when they share best practice reports on successfully completed projects. Store managers in the retail sector also noticeably improve their service quality by sharing customer feedback.
KIROI Step 1 - Impulses for an effective exchange of knowledge
This first step focuses on how managers can initiate and support the exchange of knowledge in a targeted manner. Three central tasks are at the forefront here:
- Raising awareness of the importance of knowledge exchange for entrepreneurial success.
- Creation of transparent communication channels and clear responsibilities.
- Support and moderation of knowledge processes to break down barriers.
In practice, this means that an IT company organises regular „knowledge sessions“ in which employees report on current projects. Banks rely on digital platforms that allow the uncomplicated exchange of expertise. A medium-sized mechanical engineering company uses mentoring programmes through which experienced employees support young colleagues.
BEST PRACTICE with one customer (name hidden due to NDA contract) A medium-sized company implemented KIROI Step 1 by establishing internal workshops for conscious reflection on its own level of knowledge. Managers moderated these meetings to promote dialogue and make individual learning needs visible. This increased cross-departmental collaboration and significantly shortened project lead times.
Practical tips for managers to promote knowledge sharing
Managers can actively support knowledge sharing by:
- Initiate regular feedback rounds to gather knowledge from different perspectives,
- use digital tools that make it easier to share and find information,
- Establish a culture of trust and appreciation in which knowledge is willingly passed on,
- Promote informal meetings to make tacit knowledge visible,
- Establish employee training as an integral part of personnel development.
For example, a research institute shows how interdisciplinary teams can find more creative solutions more quickly with the help of structured knowledge sharing. At the same time, an international logistics company strengthens employee loyalty through knowledge portals that combine expert profiles and project-related tips.
Challenges in knowledge sharing and how KIROI Step 1 supports them
Many managers report resistance to sharing knowledge. Some employees fear losing power or recognition if they disclose their expertise. Others see the effort involved in preparing information as additional stress. KIROI Step 1 provides a framework for recognising these obstacles at an early stage and dealing with them constructively.
Although technology promotes knowledge sharing, the key usually lies in the culture. Managers are required to build trust and make the personal benefits of knowledge sharing clear. The introduction of suitable incentives and clear communication rules also help to increase motivation. This makes the company more agile and adaptable overall.
Knowledge exchange as the key to sustainable corporate success
The modern working world requires managers to rethink and actively shape knowledge sharing. KIROI Step 1 provides practical answers and supports managers in accompanying this process systematically and sustainably. Those who effectively integrate knowledge sharing into the corporate culture not only promote innovation and efficiency, but also strengthen the sense of unity within the teams.
Practical examples show that companies with an active knowledge strategy usually react more quickly to market changes and that their employees remain motivated in the long term. Knowledge sharing is therefore not just a tool, but a success factor that can help managers to lead projects and transformation processes to success in a targeted manner.
My analysis
Knowledge sharing must not remain a by-product for managers. It is a strategic element that must be actively shaped - especially in VUCA worlds and complex projects. KIROI Step 1 responds to this challenge with a clear focus on culture, communication and support. The inclusion of real examples from various industries illustrates how practical and effective this approach is. Managers who take knowledge sharing seriously and encourage it create the basis for innovation and sustainable success.
Further links from the text above:
The role of managers in knowledge management - Breev
Knowledge sharing: The ultimate guide - easygenerator
Knowledge exchange in knowledge management: tools & methods
How managers actively promote the exchange of knowledge
Definition Knowledge Exchange | Glossary Business Processes
Knowledge transfer | Definition, methods & examples - persomatch
Effective knowledge transfer in complex organisations
Knowledge transfer: Definition - Sage
3 ways to utilise knowledge sharing - Atlassian
Knowledge management in the company - Haufe Akademie
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