An Analytical Framework For Exploring Knowledge Networks Based On Communication: The Case Of A Research Organization

In order to identify and analyze relevant knowledge in an organization, one has to consider not only the knowledge stocks but also investigate established routines, structures and processes involved in creating and diffusing knowledge. Knowledge intensive organizations are constituted by networks of experts in and beyond the organization. Experts are embedded in communication networks in the scientific community to collaboratively generate, utilize and transform knowledge. To support the coordination of knowledge processes it is essential to systematically identify and leverage these networks. In this paper we first describe such a systematic approach for the analysis of intra- and inter-organizational networks in knowledge intensive organizations. We then apply this approach to explore existing and potential external knowledge networks of a research organization by means of social network analysis. We conclude with some remarks on the applicability of the approach and the methodology.