dc.description.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. |
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