A Pattern-Based Tool for Knowledge Management in Virtual Projects

Abstract

Modern businesses face many challenges in today’s increasingly complex environment characterized by uncertainty, rapid change, technological innovation and globalization. This necessitates the need for organizations to effectively share and manage knowledge to improve operational efficiency and enhance competitiveness. The ability to leverage knowledge effectively distinguishes a competitive firm from others. The increasing use of virtual projects and teams has presented challenges to effective knowledge sharing. This paper describes a software tool to facilitate knowledge management in virtual projects. Based on previous theoretical and empirical work on the notion of patterns in virtual projects by Khazanchi and Zigurs (2005, and 2008), a tool is developed to support the capturing of such patterns. Following a brief summary of the foundational concepts, the main components of the pattern-based knowledge management tool are described. Also discussed are the ways in which the tool can facilitate knowledge creation and knowledge transfer in virtual projects.

Keywords: Pattern theory, Virtual project, Knowledge management, Pattern-based software tool