Design of knowledge management implementation in Islamic universities

Abstract

Purpose: The objective of the present study is to investigate the design of knowledge management (KM) implementation in State Islamic Universities, which possess the status of a Public Service Agency (BLU) and have implemented the remuneration system. KM is an approach to understand how knowledge is produced, stored, and distributed to improve the academic productivity. Methodology: It is a qualitative research with a phenomenological approach, which is conducted to reveal the KM implementation by exploring the knowledge management-related activities in Islamic universities in Indonesia. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, documentation and focus group discussions (FGDs). Data analysis was done through data reduction, data display, conclusions, and verification. Main Findings: The present study indicates that KM is designed by including: First, knowledge production sourced from the outcomes of research carried out by lecturers and academic staff members with various research schemes; Second, knowledge storage is done in offline and online modes (Offline storage includes printouts, journals, and proceedings while online storage is in the form of repositories, websites, and online journals); Third, knowledge distribution is done through printouts, electronic systems, conventional lectures, and references. The KM implementation will be optimal with the support of relevant policies from the top management. Applications: The present study provides an overview of KM design that can be used as a framework by the actors and policy makers in educational institutions. Novelty / Originality: The novelty of the present study is on the description and the KM flow design in State Islamic Universities in Indonesia.