Probst-Romhardt model
Definition
A knowledge model which is focused on the practical applicability of knowledge management
Description
The Probst-Romhardt model is intended as a practical model of knowledge management. Some basic aspects leading to this model are
- Compatibility. Knowledge management requires both a shared language and a good fit with concepts that already exist in the organization, such as Total Quality
- Management or Business Process Reengineering.
- Problem Orientation. Knowledge management has to make a contribution to the solution of concrete
- problems; it must not be allowed to remain theoretical. The ultimate test of ideas is their usefulness in practice.
- Comprehensibility. The company must choose terms and ideas of knowledge management that are relevant to its success and readily understood across the company.
- Action Orientation. Analyses in the field of knowledge management should enable managers to evaluate the impact of their instruments on the organizational knowledge base and should lead to focused action.
- Appropriate Instruments. Focused interventions need proven instruments. The final goal of a knowledge management concept is to provide a range of such instruments. But the kinds of tools employed are less important than their skillful use
Fig. 1 gives an overview of the models. On the strategic level, knowledge goals define the organizational strategic and operational goals. On the operational level below the stages of knowledge identification, acquisition, development, distribution, preservation and use will contribute to reach the knowledge goals. All these stages are strongly interconnected. An important aspect is the measurement of knowledge, which allows an assessment the effectivity of the knowledge management measures. Measurement is crucial for revisiting the strategic goals, and to improve the operational stages if needed.
