Managing subsurface knowledge; three initiatives in BP

Abstract

In a dispersed organisation, the transfer of knowledge is crucial to effective operation. The systematic capture, transfer and application of knowledge, known as Knowledge Management, can generate value for a company by eliminating mistakes, rework, and learning curves. Knowledge management can involve ‘knowledge push’ (where good practices are identified and stored for re-use) and/or ‘knowledge pull’ (where relevant knowledge is sought at the time it is needed). This article describes three of the ‘pull’ components of the BP Knowledge Management system: a process for transferring knowledge known as the Peer Assist, a company-wide database of people's knowledge known as Connect, and the Communities of Practice which can be established around any skill or discipline area.