This I doctoral thesis examines a specific aspect of Knowledge Management (KM). This is knowledge sharing and the knowledge relationships that exist in knowledge flows through processes in organisations. It focuses on cultural influences on knowledge flows through knowledge coordinating mechanisms. This study is conducted through qualitative methods. The study involves immersion and snow ball sampling interviews to uncover the forms, perceptions and cultural factors influencing the operation of knowledge flows. The interpretive approach makes possible a deeper examination of perceptions of knowledge on the operation of a process from the perspective of those involved, and their perceptions of the other agents involved. Human Resources (HR) Shared Services are a means to address concerns surrounding qUality and cost in transactional oriented HR services. This study compares internal HR Shared Services and externally outsourced models. They are currently one of the most lucrative and popular means of outsourcing aspects of the firm. As a process they incorporate a broad range of knowledge flows that can be considered as reasonably stand alone. The hierarchical construction of HR Shared Services makes them representative of many processes within organisations from which generalisations can be drawn. This study argues in favour of KM being applicable to hierarchically oriented organisations and not just suitable for specific knowledge focused organisations. Knowledge flows are seen as the means for organisations to focus their corporate cultures to facilitate knowledge sharing and exchange. In this case it provides more relevant HR advice through better use of resources and improves the quality of the prOduct. It facilitates sustained competitive advantage in the use of combining resources of organisations in unique ways. It builds on a theoretical foundation of Cultural means of coordinating knowledge and by considering perceptions of agents in knowledge studies. It also considers how conflicts can be resolved and the issue of knowledge hierarchies.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:631237 |
| Date | January 2006 |
| Creators | McDougall, Daniel |
| Publisher | University of Manchester |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
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