IMPLEMENTING COMMUNITIES OF PRACTICE IN A MATRIX ORGANIZATION

摘要

Effective, efficient, and affordable industrial operations is achieved through commitment to acquiring the Five Disciplines of a Learning Organization. Acquiring the Five Disciplines in a large organization is a cultural change commitment that requires a Knowledge Management strategy and process. An important element, and a proven best practice, for many Knowledge Management implementations is the Community of Practice. This paper identifies and traces the development of the Communities of Practice within the context of a matrix organization's transformation into a Learning Organization and the challenges, resources, and role of leadership in establishing the Communities of Practice. Metrics showing the quantitative and qualitative positive impact of the communities on organizational performance and behavior are provided to support the argument that Communities of Practice increase the rates of individual and team learning, development of new capabilities, improved productivity, and a sustainable positive and collaborative work environment, all of which are crucial to a Learning Organization.