Knowledge Management Process of Germinated Brown Rice Production Community Enterprise

Abstract

The objective of this qualitative research was to investigate the knowledge management process of Germinated Brown Rice Production Community Enterprise in Sakon Nakhon, Northeastern region of Thailand, a major processing source. The sample was selected based on purposive sampling. It was Ban-Noijomsri Community Enterprise with effective knowledge management. Methodologies included interview, focus group, and participant and non-participant observations. Data were analyzed by content analysis. The results of this study indicated that 1). Knowledge identification focused on the knowledge used in production and production process development and community enterprise and business management, 2). Knowledge creation and acquisition were conducted inside and outside community enterprise through discussion and knowledge exchange with members, participation in training, and field trip with external agencies, 3). Knowledge storage was conducted by storing knowledge through personal recognition and important information note, 4). Knowledge distribution was conducted through discussion and knowledge sharing, demonstration, manual and process sign board preparation, and 5). Knowledge application was conducted by integrating knowledge and experience into new academic knowledge to obtain new body of knowledge. The key factors contributing to successful knowledge management were leadership and organizational culture.