Integrating Knowledge Process and System Design for Naval Battle Groups

Abstract

Interest in and attention to knowledge management have exploded recently. But integration of knowledge process design with information system design has long been missing from the corresponding literature and practice. The research described in this paper builds upon recent work focused on knowledge management and system design from three integrated perspectives: 1) reengineering process innovation, 2) expert systems knowledge acquisition and representation, and 3) information systems analysis and design. With this work, we now have an integrated framework for knowledge process and system design that covers the gamut of design considerations from the enterprise process in the large, through alternative classes of knowledge in the middle, and on to specific systems in the detail. We illustrate the use and utility of the approach through an extreme enterprise example addressing Navy carrier battle groups in operational theaters, which addresses many factors widely considered important in the knowledge management environment. Using this integrated methodology, the reader can see how to identify, select, compose and integrate the many component applications and technologies required for effective knowledge system and process design.