Efficiencies from knowledge management technologies in a military enterprise

Abstract

PurposeThe debate about the differences between government, commercial and military knowledge management initiatives continues. Many consultants and vendors posit that the different objectives of government, military and commercial organizations require different philosophies, methodologies and technologies to achieve success. Many agree that technology is not the most important element of knowledge integration. However, they also agree that knowledge management technologies can enable knowledge integration and contribute to efficiencies in organizations. This study provides empirical research to contribute to this theoretical and practical discussion.Design/methodology/approachThis study explores the perceived differences of the impact of knowledge management technologies between commercial, military and government users. Analysis of variance is used to compare means of responses among the three groups. This study applies hypothesis testing through a case study of an enterprise in the military sector, the United States Department of the Navy's (DON) Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR).FindingsThe primary conclusion of this study is that there is a significant difference in expectations among contractors, government civilian and uniform military knowledge workers on expected efficiencies from KMTs. Contractors and uniform military have similar expectations. Government civilians have significantly lower expectations. Contractors have the highest expectations from KMTs.Research limitations/implicationsThere are a few studies that compare government and commercial sector knowledge management expectations and practices. In addition, case studies and anecdotal data provided by vendors and consultants communicate the value of knowledge management technologies. Still there is a need to grow the body of knowledge on the impact of KMTs on efficiency. To that end there is a growing commitment to empirical and conceptual research by scholars in knowledge management.Practical implicationsImplications for scholars and practitioners are posited.Originality/valueThere is still a lack of empirical research on the impact of knowledge management technologies on competitive advantage in government organizations. This study adds to understanding of this area of research.