Management in the knowledge society: Tendencies and Prospects

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study is to investigate the possibilities and the prospects of management under the conditions of emerging knowledge society, defining fundamental management models and revealing their dynamics. Method/Statistical Analysis: Applying methods of social and philosophical analysis the authors study the prerequisites for modern society transformation, stipulated by the fact that knowledge is being turned into the basic factor predetermining social move to a new stage, to knowledge society. Such approach is based on the systematic method, according to which the knowledge society is treated as a complex system. Conceptual analysis of scientific studies in management and management sociology was conducted. Findings: It is shown that the process of moving towards the knowledge society results in appearance of a pronounced trend to abandoning the functional management principles and to developing management by objectives. This trend is expressed in decentralization of management, in abandoning the hierarchy and the administration-by-fiat management methods, in higher significance of the information component. The study justifies an assumption, according to which the increase in complexity and nonlinearity of the new organizational forms results in higher demand for adaptive management models based on applying such advanced solutions in information technologies as artificial neural networks and Artificial Life method. Due to wide-spread deployment of the network type organizations possessing complex systems of interconnections and interrelations, there is a probability of synergetic effects (fluctuations, occurrence of dissipative structures), which would require implementing nonstandard solutions in the sphere of management. Establishment and development of virtual organizational structures and virtual management processes make this trend even more pronounced. Applications/Improvements: Social and philosophical analysis of the principal trends and prospects for development of management in the knowledge society is not only theoretically but also practically focused and can be used by organizations/corporations interested in establishing effective management practices.