Describing the issues of knowledge management in R&D: towards a communication and analysis tool

Abstract

Abstract In this article, a comprehensive descriptive model of R&D knowledge management is presented and its use illustrated. Knowledge is defined as: information internalized by means of research, study or experience, that has value for the organization. First, the issue of knowledge management is placed in the context of R&D management, and set alongside what has been written in R&D management literature about topics such as information management, information technology in R&D, technology transfer, communication and organizational learning. Then, we present our descriptive model, and apply it in a case study concerning a Dutch multinational in the chemical industry. The model served as an aid to identify bottlenecks, and was a useful starting point for formulating improvement plans, some of which are presented. The paper concludes with an evaluation of the model as a communication and analysis tool, and ideas for further improvement.