Application of Quality Function Deployment as an Integrative Method to Knowledge Management Implementation

Abstract

Knowledge Management Implementation (KMI) can be analysed from three perspectives: Knowledge Management System (KMS) implementation, Knowledge Management Processes (KMPs) implementation and Organisational Outcomes (OO). Quality Function Deployment (QFD), conceived within the scope of quality, represents a method capable of bringing significant contributions to the knowledge field of KMI. The QFD method stands out as a comprehensive approach to improve the quality of products and services, focussing on customer requirements. The literature presents a scarcity of studies that discuss the KMI implementation process, addressing these three perspectives. Furthermore, studies that address QFD in the context of KM are more focussed on the KMS implementation perspective. In this context, this research proposes an innovative approach adopting QFD in order to structure the KMI, encompassing the three perspectives presented (KMS implementation, KMP implementation and OO). In this context, QFD is seen as a method of integrating and operationalising KMI activities. To validate this approach, we applied the case study in an academic support department at a Brazilian public university. As a result, it was possible to verify that the QFD helps in the operationalisation of the KMS and KMP and also improves OO. Still, it was observed that the approach to knowledge management seems to be easy to apply in the academic setting and has produced good results in the service offered in the department where it was applied.