Integration of Knowledge Management in Virtual Groups

摘要

This paper focuses on exploring knowledge work in two types of virtual groups, attempting to identify common themes and key differentiators. We were particularly interested in investigating how various forums support, or do not support, collective virtual knowledge work. Our study demonstrates that, despite apparent differences in purpose and objectives (drives), synergies exist between virtual communities and teams. Virtual groups such as virtual communities, communities of practice and virtual teams perform emergent knowledge work based on relationships, interaction and self-regulation. These groups carry out a variety of valuable knowledge work, which is often motivated by individual or group-based - rather than managerial - needs. We develop a model of the role of virtual groups in knowledge management (KM) in business and social organizations, and suggest that our model forms a basis for further exploration of this increasingly important topic.