Enabling Smart Research and Development through Knowledge Conversation
Knowledge conversationKnowledge managementResearch and developmentBaTrelleborgManagement of enterprisesFöretagsledningManagementBusiness and Economics
Abstract Title: Enabling Smart Research and Development through Knowledge Conversation Seminar date: 2005-06-08 Course: Master thesis in business administration, 10 Swedish credits (15 ECTS) Authors: Andreas Johnsson, Johan Rosendahl Advisors: Lars Bengtsson Key words: Knowledge management, Knowledge conversation, Research and development, Ba, Trelleborg Purpose: The purpose of the thesis is to create a model that shows how knowledge management aimed at research and development processes can be used and how the theoretical fields can be connected. Methodology: The thesis is based on abductive perspective where empirical and theoretical material has been mixed to create a foundation for the analysis. Theoretical perspectives: Theories concerning knowledge management and research and development have primarily been used. These have been complemented with material about team structures and incentive systems. Empirical foundation: The empirical material is based on semi structured, mostly qualitative interviews and strictly quantitative inquiries performed at Industrial Hose within the Trelleborg group. Conclusions: We conclude that knowledge management supports research and development activities. A model which shows how the different theoretical fields can be connected is constructed. The model can be used either as a theoretical explanatory model or as a helping illustration in the practical knowledge management aimed at research and development. The thesis also includes practical advice to Industrial Hose.