Knowledge management as a strategic tool for human resource management : a study of selected higher educational institutions.
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Date
2010
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Abstract
Although higher educational institutions the world over are beginning to
recognize the importance of knowledge management, such institutions are still
on the “very first steps of the long ladder” in addressing, evaluating and
implementing the benefits of knowledge management with particular reference to
the human resource management sector. Knowledge management is a viable
means through which higher educational institutions could gainfully capitalize on
its intellectual and social capital. Implementing knowledge management
principles could bring about improved human resource efficiency and
effectiveness and a resultant improved performance at higher educational
institutions fostering a culture of excellence. Institutions of higher learning should
therefore embrace knowledge management principles and practices in order to
adequately address the challenges in a society that is becoming increasingly
knowledge based.
Relevant knowledge for human resource managers could be located at three
different places. Individual knowledge is acquired through personal work
experiences. Secondary knowledge could be attained through others insights,
experiences and perceptions. Finally, much valued codified knowledge could be
found in knowledge repositories. The realistic value of knowledge could be
derived through the combination of all three approaches.
Against this backdrop, this study explores knowledge management as a strategic
tool for human resource management in higher educational institutions.
Specifically, the dimensions such as organizational culture, organizational
performance, technology, management support, and the institutions mission and
vision will be evaluated to understand knowledge management within higher
educational institutions.
A questionnaire/survey was administered to a sample representing senior,
middle and junior human resource managers at selected higher educational
institutions in South Africa, Mauritius and India. In addition, a semi-structured
interview was conducted with executive managers responsible for the human
resource function in the higher educational institutions.
The study investigated the impact of policies, systems and processes that the
higher educational institutions implemented in support of knowledge
management and knowledge sharing.
A triangulated research approach was adopted through the administration of
survey questionnaires amongst human resource managers, conducting semistructured
interviews with executive managers, and a comprehensive literature
review backed up with a review of the findings of similar studies.
The outcomes of the study demonstrate that significant benefits could be derived
by HEI’s in adopting an integrative approach between the human resource and
knowledge management functions. The research results provide convincing
arguments to support the integration of human resource management and
knowledge management initiatives in HEI’s and affirms the assumption that these
two disciplines are mutually inclusive. Whilst the HRM function at HEI’s have
demonstrated that they have the capability and resources to implement
knowledge management initiatives, the results reflect that much ground needs to
be covered to realize the full benefits of this endeavour.
The research culminates in providing important recommendations and
guidelines, as well as the development of an integrated normative model on how
human resource departments at higher educational institutions could embrace
knowledge management as a strategic human resource management tool.
The study confirms that an effective knowledge management strategy for human
resource management that is aligned to the organizations’ strategic objectives is
imperative in the 21st century organizational era, and more specifically for higher
educational institutions in South Africa.
Description
Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville,
Keywords
Knowledge management., Strategic planning., Personnel management., Theses--Management studies.