Adoption of knowledge management by Canadian housing charities

Abstract

Many researchers have focused on the adoption and associated challenges of knowledge management tools in the commercial construction sector. However, few have investigated the usage and effectiveness of such tools and their adoption in the non-profit sector. Accordingly, ongoing action research principles are used to provide insights into preferred types, challenges of adoption, and qualitative and quantitative impacts of utilising knowledge management tools in a large and a small Canadian housing charity. Preliminary results indicate preference towards a combination of information technology and non-information technology tools for both charities. Barriers included inadequate technical capability, time and financial constraints; and improved efficacy of organisational knowledge management practices. The paper contributes to the construction engineering management sphere in academia and industry by exploring the knowledge management theme through the application of action research methods. Future work focuses on developing a roadmap for knowledge management in construction non-profit volunteer organisations.