Today, knowledge sharing is a decisive factor for the success of modern organisations. Many decision-makers are looking for ways to organise and sustainably improve this process. Especially in complex projects or during changes in the organisation, knowledge sharing becomes a decisive factor. With the KIROI approach, structured steps can be implemented to sustainably improve knowledge sharing. The first steps are often the most important in establishing a culture of openness and collaboration.
Knowledge exchange as the basis for successful projects
In the everyday life of many companies, knowledge is created in many places. In development, customer service or marketing. However, this knowledge often gets stuck in individual departments or with individual employees. A targeted exchange of knowledge helps to break through these silos. This allows new ideas to be implemented more quickly. Teams benefit from each other and learn from each other.
Example: In a software company, the development team works closely with the support team. Through regular dialogue rounds, experiences from customer meetings are incorporated directly into product development. This leads to faster improvements and greater customer satisfaction.
Another example: In a consulting firm, experiences from projects are systematically documented. New employees are given access to these documents and can therefore familiarise themselves with their tasks more quickly. The exchange of knowledge thus becomes part of the corporate culture.
The exchange of knowledge also plays an important role in the healthcare sector. Doctors and nurses regularly exchange information about new treatment methods. This allows patients to benefit from the latest findings.
Rethinking knowledge sharing: KIROI Step 1 for decision-makers
KIROI stands for the step-by-step development of competences that enable the sustainable exchange of knowledge. Step 1 focusses on raising awareness among decision-makers. Clients often report that sharing knowledge is not a matter of course. This is where I provide targeted support in developing a culture of openness and mutual trust. This can mean winning over managers as role models for knowledge sharing or establishing targeted feedback loops.
One example: an insurance company has used mentoring programmes to connect the knowledge of older employees with new colleagues. Another example: an IT service provider uses short, regular video updates to share project experiences within the team. It is important to make the benefits visible to everyone involved - because sharing knowledge not only benefits the organisation, but also each individual.
Recognising and breaking down barriers to knowledge exchange
Structural or cultural barriers often hinder the exchange. These include outdated systems, a lack of time resources or the feeling that knowledge is power. Clients often report that employees do not share their knowledge for fear of losing value. Transparent communication can help here, as can clear incentives for sharing expertise.
Example: An industrial company has introduced a bonus system for knowledge contributions. A publishing house relies on playful quiz formats to collect and disseminate knowledge. Digital platforms such as social intranets or collaborative tools also support the exchange of knowledge as long as they meet the needs of the users.
BEST PRACTICE at a customer (name concealed due to NDA contract): As part of a KIROI project, an internal knowledge platform was set up in a medium-sized industrial company. At the same time, regular exchange formats such as short presentations took place. This enabled employees to make their expertise more visible and utilise it across departments. This led to a noticeable improvement in the project process and a stronger team dynamic.
My analysis
Knowledge sharing is a systematic process of exchanging information, skills and expertise between individuals or groups. It is essential for improving mutual understanding and performance within organisations. Effective knowledge sharing promotes innovation, accelerates problem solving and improves decision-making processes. It encompasses both tacit and explicit knowledge and can occur vertically or horizontally across different levels or departments. Utilising technology such as intranets and collaborative platforms is critical, as is overcoming barriers such as outdated systems and siloed departments. By fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration, organisations can unlock significant competitive advantage.
Further links from the text above:
Knowledge exchange - The office expert
Mastering knowledge sharing: KIROI Step 1 for decision-makers
Definition Knowledge Exchange | Glossary Business Processes
Rethinking knowledge exchange: KIROI Step 1 for ...
Knowledge exchange in knowledge management: Tools & ...
Mastering knowledge sharing: How to get started with KIROI ...
Knowledge sharing: The ultimate guide
Knowledge transfer - methods, examples, definition
Knowledge transfer: Definition - Sage
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