Do smarter systems make for smarter organizations?

摘要

This article explores the role of knowledge-based systems (KBS) in knowledge management (KM). KM is considered an umbrella term, incorporating various issues related to the value of knowledge as a production factor. This study assesses three research themes which together address the main object of KM. First, how do the introduction and utilization of KBS affect the organizational core competencies? Secondly, is the knowledge content of products and services affected by KBS? Thirdly, how do these systems affect job quality? The results of an empirical investigation in 24 knowledge-intensive, commercial organizations show that KBS usually have a positive impact on organizational competencies. They reveal that KBS may both threaten and enhance the knowledge content of certain tasks. They also show that, in general, the introduction of KBS leads to a slight decrease in job quality.