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The Downside Of Networks: The Negative Effects Of A Graying Workforce On Knowledge Retention

In: Knowledge Management Competencies and Professionalism

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  • PATRICIA KATOPOL

    (School of Library and Information Science, University of Iowa, USA)

Abstract

Can there be a downside to social networks in the workplace? This paper presents empirical evidence indicating that a network of long-time employees may restrict knowledge retention in the organization. The study found that support staff in a municipal government environment depended upon their deep social networks to obtain and share information. While this behavior may have short-term benefits, the findings suggest that there may be a negative effect on knowledge retention where: 1) network members are long term employees who prefer to obtain information from familiar, rather than the best, sources; 2) information obtained is not shared; 3) the focus is on completing tasks at hand rather than retaining knowledge for the long term, and 4) network members with expertise are close to retirement.

Suggested Citation

  • Patricia Katopol, 2008. "The Downside Of Networks: The Negative Effects Of A Graying Workforce On Knowledge Retention," World Scientific Book Chapters, in: Suliman Hawamdeh & Kimberly Stauss & Franz Barachini (ed.), Knowledge Management Competencies and Professionalism, chapter 7, pages 77-84, World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd..
    • Handle: RePEc:wsi:wschap:9789812837578_0007
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