Huang, Jimmy C. (2000) Knowledge integration processes and dynamics : an empirical study of two cross-functional programme teams. PhD thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

This thesis critically reviews and evaluates theories of organisational knowledge and
knowledge-related activities. Specifically, it assesses and synthesises relevant theories
and thoughts to develop a conceptual model of the knowledge integration process.
Empirical evidence, collected from two organisations- Boots The Chemists and NatWest
Global Financial Markets is also exploited as a means of building a grounded theory of
knowledge integration
This theory explains the processes of knowledge integration within the context of crossfunctional
project teams. It also considers the general factors that influence these
processes, as well as the dynamic interrelationships between the proposed processes.
The theory provides a framework not only for future research to systematically examine
and test knowledge integration processes within different organisations, but also allows
management to continuously anticipate knowledge integration activities within their own
organisations.
Based on a social construction perspective, this thesis demonstrates that knowledge
integration is more than merely the representation of intellectual activities underlying the
planning, redesign and implementation stages of a cross-functional programme. It also
argues that cross-functional knowledge integration is a continuous process in which
programme participants establish emotional alignment through social interaction.
This research contributes to studies of organisational knowledge and knowledge-related
activities by providing an explorative account that synthesises existing literature with
empirical evidence. Secondly, this research contributes to the theoretical development of
knowledge integration by focusing on its processes rather than just its outcomes and
implications which have been the main concern of other researchers. Finally, the
development of a cross-functional knowledge integration theory contributes to the
consolidation of the intellectual and emotional dimensions of knowledge-related
activities that have in the past been treated in isolation.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (PhD)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HD Industries. Land use. Labor > HD28 Management. Industrial Management
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Knowledge management, Boots Company, NatWest Group
Official Date:	July 2000
Dates:	Date Event July 2000 Submitted
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Warwick Business School
Thesis Type:	PhD
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Newell, Susan ; Antonacopoulou, Elena P. ; Morgan, Glenn
Sponsors:	International Business Machines Corporation (IBM)
Extent:	xvii, 371 leaves
Language:	eng

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