What Don’t We Know? Developing an Instrument to Identify Information Systems Knowledge within a Firm

• In Event: Design Science and Field Studies

Abstract

Many companies rely on legacy information systems which utilize obsolete technology and include embedded business rules that are imprecisely documented. There is a risk that crucial knowledge related to maintenance of these systems could leave organizations due to a surge in retirement of experienced information technology professionals. Using a knowledge-based view of the firm as our theoretical lens, this research uses a design science approach to develop a survey instrument and analysis approach to identify employees with key knowledge about information systems within the firm. The instrument was evaluated within the information systems department of a utility company to evaluate its usefulness. The analysis produces a prioritized list of knowledge and skill areas as well as a prioritized list of employees to focus knowledge transfer efforts. Through the implementation of the instrument, the organization’s management confirmed many of its concerns related to retaining and transferring knowledge and obtained new insight about critical information systems knowledge within the firm. This instrument can be adapted to other organizations and other specific knowledge areas.

Authors

• Jesse Shumaker, Information Technology Specialist

• Kerry Ward, University of Nebraska - Omaha

• Stacie Petter, Baylor University

• Jennifer Blaskovich Riley, University of Nebraska-Omaha