0.3. Knowledge Strategy Concepts

Question 1

How are the three knowledge capabilities related to performance? (3)

Answer 1

1. Combinative Capabilities (Creating):
Adding value through the creation of new knowledge.

2. Integrative Capabilities (Transferring):
Reducing costs by effectively transferring and integrating knowledge.

3. Protective Capabilities (Managing):
Ensuring returns appropriation by managing and protecting knowledge assets.

Question 2

What strategies can be implemented to increase combinative capabilities in a multinational IT company?

A: Internal Learning (3)

Answer 2

1. Reorganizing:
Reconfigure teams to mix different skills and perspectives, encouraging innovation.

2. Accidents:
Foster an environment where serendipitous discoveries are possible by allowing flexible project scopes and exploratory initiatives.

3. Experiments:
Promote a culture of experimentation with controlled risks to generate new ideas.

Question 3

What strategies can be implemented to increase combinative capabilities in a multinational IT company?

B: External Learning (3)

Answer 3

1. Acquisitions:
Acquire companies with complementary technologies or innovative products to integrate new knowledge.

2. Joint Ventures:
Form partnerships with other firms to share knowledge and co-develop new technologies.

3. New People:
Hire individuals with unique expertise and diverse backgrounds to bring in fresh perspectives and ideas.

Question 4

What strategies can be implemented for integrating knowledge in a multinational IT company? (4)

Answer 4

1. Rules and Directives:
Establish clear guidelines and protocols for knowledge sharing and integration across departments.

2. Sequencing:
Implement a step-by-step process to ensure knowledge is transferred in a structured and logical manner.

3. Routines:
Develop regular practices and routines for team interactions and knowledge exchanges to embed knowledge integration into daily operations.

4. Group Problem Solving and Decision Making:
Encourage collaborative decision-making sessions and problem-solving workshops to leverage collective knowledge and ensure comprehensive integration.

Question 5

What strategies can be implemented for efficiently protecting knowledge in a multinational IT company? (3)

Answer 5

1. Incentive Alignment:
Align employee incentives with the protection of intellectual property to motivate careful handling of knowledge assets.

2. Re-ordering:
Structure knowledge management processes to prioritize the security and confidentiality of critical information.

3. Employment:
Implement strict employment contracts with non-disclosure agreements and clauses that protect proprietary knowledge, and encourage long-term retention of key employees through career development opportunities and competitive benefits.