Mapping knowledge risks: towards a better understanding of knowledge management

Abstract

This conceptual paper aims to identify, present, and analyze potential knowledge risks organizations might face. With the growing complexity of organizational environments and the plethora of new knowledge risks emerging, this critical but under-researched field of knowledge management (KM) deserves closer attention. The study is based on a critical analysis of the extant literature devoted to knowledge risks, discusses potential outcomes of these risks and proposes a concept map of knowledge risks. The map shows a number of knowledge risks organizations should be aware of. Knowledge risks can be assigned to three categories: human, technological and operational. The research is the first systematic and comprehensive review of knowledge risks at the organizational level. By aggregating and consolidating the knowledge risks covered, the study does not only provide a knowledge risk taxonomy but also promising directions for future research. The study also contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of KM.