Knowledge Management practices at the African Economic Research Consortium – Nairobi Secretariat

Abstract

The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) is deficient in appropriate management strategies for knowledge resources to steer the organization into the next generation of knowledge frontier. AERC has been managing knowledge albeit undistinguished based on technical systems that disregard the information resource base and the people who create knowledge. The aim of the study was to investigate knowledge management practices at the African Economic Research Consortium with a view to recommend a number of strategies to implement, to improve knowledge management at AERC. The objectives of the study were: to identify knowledge resources that exist at AERC; to examine methods used to capture, store and retrieve knowledge at AERC; to examine the policies governing knowledge management at AERC; to establish the existence of knowledge sharing culture at AERC; to establish the challenges faced in managing knowledge at AERC and to recommend suitable strategies for knowledge management at AERC. The study population was made up of 42 respodents. Census method was used since the population was small thereforeentire population was studied. The study applied the Henczel model as it holds that some organizations are embarking on knowledge management programs without an understanding of why their knowledge assets are important. The study used mixed research design .Interview schedules, questionnairesand observation check list were the main tools used in data collection.Qualitative data was analysed thematically while quantitative data was analysedstatistically.The study found out that AERC managed a wide category of knowledge resources which were both explicit and tacit in nature. The study found thatthe following systems were used in managing knowledge at AERC: Computer Systems, Human Resource Information Systems, Management Information Systems, Library Information systems, Finance Information systems among others. In addition, the study established that the knowledge management function at AERC was governed by a number of policy measures that guided knowledge capturing, storing and sharing. These included performance appraisal policy, staff induction policy, staff training and development policy, coaching and mentoring policy. However, cultural differences, inadequate technological infrastructure, lack of awareness on knowledge management among others were among some of the challenges identified that inhibit management of knowledge at AERC. The study concluded that for successful management of knowledge in the organization, there is need for policy framework to be in place. The study has recommended a number of strategies that could be implemented to improve knowledge management at AERC. These included promotion of continuous learning at the secretariat through sponsorship, exhibitions, creation of incubation centers and enhancement of mentorship programs. AERC could also consider adopting and implementing open access policies on knowledge management to enhance its knowledge and information sharing as well as awareness on knowledge management practices, formulation of knowledge management strategy, embracing open access policy, infrastructural investment in ICT, increased funding of knowledge management initiatives in the organization among others.