The contribution of knowledge management systems to interorganizational learning

Abstract

Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) are thought to be useful in facilitating Interorganizational Learning (IOL) and in providing competitive advantage. Often these systems are shared across complex networked organizations and the relationships between the allied organizations may even depend on the quality of the systems they share. This paper presents a research-in-progress proposal which will consist of ten exploratory case studies as part of a program of doctoral research. The cases will examine IOL when a KMS is used to facilitate the partnership between the organizations. The cases all involve a partnership between Microsoft Business Solutions (MBS) and the Value-Added Resellers/Consulting firms that represent several MBS product lines. Organizational transparency, organizational receptivity, relative absorptive capacity, intent of the partners and partner success will all be explored as to how they influence IOL in the context of a specific KMS provided by Microsoft. Copyright 2006 ACM.