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Knowledge Management in the SocioTechnical World
Manufacturer: Springer ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 185233441X |
Book Description
This book follows on from Elayne Coakes'previous book in the CSCW series, The New SocioTech (published April 2000). Whereas that book gave a broad introduction to the re-emerging area of sociotechnical design, this one applies these principles specifically to the area of Knowledge Management (KM). KM has been a key tool in ensuring that people and technology work together to optimum effect within organisations for many years, but recent studies have called for a more systemic approach to the topic. This book examines that problem via sociotechnical principles which have recently re-emerged as one of the most widely used approaches to information systems and organisational design. Including contributions from academics and practitioners, this book looks at key aspects of the field such as:- Knowledge management strategy formulation- Knowledge requirements- Case studies from corporate learning environments and industryIt will be of interest to practitioners, researchers, and managers who are involved in any aspect of information systems/sociotechnical design or knowledge management. It will also useful for advanced students on information systems or related courses.Customer Reviews:
Journal Review.......2003-01-20
The `graffiti' subtitle of this volume indicates its link with an earlier book on sociotechnical systems in the same Springer series on Computer Supported Cooperative Work. (See 1.) This book maintains the sociotechnical viewpoint, this time concentrating on knowledge management.
Because of this shared viewpoint, the different chapters are far better integrated than in most contributed volumes. The contributions have also been kept short and to the point, the longest being 17 pages, and taken together these make for an easy but stimulating read.
The contributors form a diverse group, with half being based in the UK and the others hailing from Australia, Scandinavia, Singapore, South Africa and the USA. The majority are academics, but there is a sprinkling of practitioners and consultants. There are 14 substantive chapters, plus introductory and concluding chapters by the editors. JORS readers may find some of the material familiar, as several of the authors gave presentations in the Learning Organisations and Knowledge Management streams at the OR42 Conference in September 2000 at Swansea.
After the Introduction, Coakes herself succinctly describes how the principles of sociotechnical systems apply to knowledge management in Chapter 2. The succeeding chapters are then divided into four parts: know-why, know-what, know-who, and know-how, although many of the chapters cut across two or more of these headings. Parts 1 and 2 mainly discuss theoretical foundations, while parts 3 and 4 are substantially based on case studies.
`Know-why' (part 1) comprises four chapters. Binney complements Coakes's chapter by explaining the human and organisational significance of his own `knowledge management spectrum'. Goldkuhl and Braf look at the relationship between the individual and the organisation, and thus at the relationships between individual knowledge and what they term organisational ability and organisational action. Chapter 5 is entitled "managing knowledge in a knowledge business"; the business in question is a university, and unusually the author (Scholtz) is one of the university's IT managers rather than an `academic'. Yoo and Ifvarsson emphasise the importance of discussing knowledge and learning in organisations as something dynamic, rather than static. They also make the telling point that a `best practice' approach may sometimes constrain the individual rather than enabling her, echoing Scholtz's view that the academic peer-regulation system may fail to recognise true creativity.
`Know-what' (part 2) is represented by chapters 7 and 8. Phillips and Patrick explain an agent-based model for investigating how cognitive style affects the development of groups, effectively developing a research agenda, while Pemberton and Stonehouse address the situation of the individual in the knowledge-centric organisation. I was a little worried to see the commonly used but unhelpful phrase "extracting individual knowledge" appearing in the latter chapter, despite the book's sociotechnical standpoint.
The three chapters in part 3 cover `know-who'. Chapter 9 by Huang and Pan concentrates on the vital, but relatively under-researched topic of managing knowledge about customers. Their case study of Boots the Chemist illustrates very well the importance of face to face interaction, and the limitations of IT. Yi examines the functioning of a pilot community of practice in Motorola and reports the outcomes from its operation. Ericsson and Avdic develop and justify a simple prototype system to help in managing knowledge relating to errors in the manufacturing process for a Swedish SME.
Part 4 contains five chapters, including the Conclusion, grouped under `know-why'. Here the general JORS reader will find some familiar techniques from soft OR and systems. Cuthbertson and Farrington use Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) in chapter 12 to appreciate a problematic knowledge management situation in one of the Royal Navy's training schools. SSM rich pictures also feature in Chapter 14, by Al-Karaghouli et al, as part of an approach which also advocates the use of group facilitation techniques in requirements elicitation for information systems. The retail sector is the example used here. By contrast, in the intervening chapter, Kazi et al offer something highly unfamiliar: a model of knowledge creation and management based on a palm tree, yielding (eventually) its knowledge coconuts. [This came as somewhat of a surprise to this reviewer, who previously associated Finland more with `track and field nuts' than coconuts.] This novel image is applied to a Finnish engineering firm, and for this reviewer was perhaps the most thought provoking image in the whole book. Kazi et al also link explicit knowledge to programmable decisions, but it is not apparent that they are aware of the OR/MS heritage here in the work of people such as Herbert Simon. Chapter 15, by Coakes et al, compares the management of tacit (and explicit) knowledge in two consulting companies, with a particular focus on whether there is a role for IT.
Overall, there is plenty of material here for both academics and practitioners interested in knowledge management. The book will also serve as useful source material to support knowledge management teaching. One unusual stylistic feature is the highlighting of key points in "speech bubble" call-outs from the main text. It took me a little while to get used to this, but by the end of the book I was finding it helpful rather than intrusive. As I said at the beginning, I enjoyed this book, and I think most people interested in knowledge management will.
John Edwards
Aston University
Reference
1. Coakes, E., Willis, D. and Lloyd-Jones, R. (Eds.) (2000) The New SocioTech: Graffiti on the Long Wall. Springer Verlag, London.
Society and technology meet knowledge management.......2002-09-17
Although I wouldn't recommend it as an undergraduate text there are plenty of really interesting ideas that I will be exploring with my Knowledge Management Technologies class when it runs next year (2003). It will certainly find a place amongst my reference books.
If this book isn't near the top of the KM best seller list then it deserves to be.
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Knowledge Management in the SocioTechnical World: The Graffiti Continues.(Book Reviews): An article from: Technical Communication
Alexa Campbell Manufacturer: Society for Technical Communication ProductGroup: Book Binding: Digital ASIN: B000826VLM Release Date: 2005-07-31 |
Book Description
This digital document is an article from Technical Communication, published by Society for Technical Communication on February 1, 2004. The length of the article is 1319 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.
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California Real Estate Principles
Walt Huber Manufacturer: Educational Textbook Company ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 0916772071 |
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California Real Estate Principles, 5E (California Real Estate Principles)
Charles Stapleton , and Martha R. Williams Manufacturer: Dearborn Real Estate Education ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 0793142032 |
Book Description
Combining the latest state specific information with solid industry fundamentals, this user friendly text gives students a strong foundation for a career in real estate. California Real Estate Principles comes loading with instructor resources and extra features to enchance the student learning experience and make teaching the class easier than ever. This new fifth edition has been updated for 2004. Chapters include:Customer Reviews:
Helped ME pass the test........2004-10-26
Horrible explanations.......2003-01-28
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California Real Estate Principles
Dennis J. McKenzie , Lowell Anderson , and Cecilia A. Hopkins Manufacturer: South-Western Educational Pub ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 0324378335 |
Book Description
Pick up the real estate textbook that thousands of professionals in California have already trusted! CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE PRINCIPLES is designed entirely around the salesperson exam and gives you a 150-question practice exam to use while you're preparing for the test. It includes test taking hints if you need them. Use the real estate textbook that helps you succeed. Trust CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE PRINCIPLES.Customer Reviews:
California real estate principles.......2007-05-13
Simple, Easy to Understand, Comprehensive.......2007-03-09
Not quite what I expected.......2007-03-09
Complete Guide to California Real Estate.......2007-02-11
Book Review.......2007-02-11
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California Real Estate Principles
Sherry Shindler Price Manufacturer: Ashley Crown Systems Inc Pub ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 093477224X |
Customer Reviews:
A real estate principle book.......2005-10-26
Inaccuries & Contradictory definitions.......2005-10-11
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Principles of California Real Estate
Kathryn Haupt Manufacturer: Rockwell Publishing ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 1887051287 |
Product Description
Principles of California Real Estate gives you a complete overview of the theoretical and practical aspects of California real estate transactions. It serves as the basis for real estate principles courses that are required by the California Department of Real Estate. Principles of California Real Estate is also the perfect study aid for anyone preparing for the California salesperson licensing exam.
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Basic Real Estate Appraisal: Principles and Procedures (with CD-ROM)
Richard M. Betts , and Silas J. Ely Manufacturer: South-Western Educational Pub ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 0324652615 |
Book Description
Learn the fundamentals of real estate appraisal from a professional. BASIC REAL ESTATE APPRAISAL, 7e makes it easy providing a clear overview of the profession and basic appraisal techniques. Completely updated to meet the new 2008 qualifying education requirements, this popular real estate appraisal book provides a thorough outline of fundamental real estate appraisal theory and practice. Like so many previous users, you'll appreciate the clear step-by-step calculations with detailed explanations in addition to how simple and complex subjects are covered in easy-to-understand terms. Practical examples throughout illustrate real-life situations real estate appraisers will encounter in everyday practice. PLUS - you will gain valuable on-the-job experience completing applications using the popular "Clickforms" software used throughout the real estate appraisal industry. This book also references and explains the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), introducing all of the appraisal related topics listed in new educational requirements for universal state licensing and certification.Customer Reviews:
Good Title... This book is BASIC.......2005-01-07
Some other books are better than this one.......2004-03-09
RE Appraisal.......2001-11-14
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California Real Estate Principles Workbook Special Edition (Real Estate Salesperson and Broker License Exam Preparation)
Manufacturer: Anthony Schools ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback ASIN: 079319511X |
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California Real Estate Principles
Walter Roy Huber Manufacturer: Educational Textbook Company Inc. ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback Similar Items:
ASIN: 0916772063 |
Customer Reviews:
Excellent Overview, Complete and Readable.......2005-02-15
California Real Estate Principles.......2000-06-03
At the end of every chapter there are a few review questions and important terminology covered in that chapter. Key topics within the text are highlighted and www (Internet) addresses are given for sites that corrospond to subjects discussed.
I found this to be easy-to-understand and written in a clear and informative manner. Also I believe this to be a good resource for questions concerning transactions within this state. If you are outside California this is NOT for you. Overall a favorable impression of this book.
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California Real Estate Principles
David Schalow Manufacturer: Dame Publishing ProductGroup: Book Binding: Hardcover ASIN: 0538882115 |
Book Description
This California-specific text is useful for both consumers and prospective agents - to provide the basics of real estate to consumers interested in buying or selling their own real estate, to teach students in real estate classes the basics of the industry, or to help potential real estate salespersons or brokers complete the required class in preparation for the state licence examination. It is unique in its focus on the interests of the consumer. It is organized so that high-interest career topics (compensation, agency) precede material on law and financing. Also includes sample tests to provide practice for the California Real Estate Exam.
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California Real Estate Principles (4th Edition)
Sherry Shindler Manufacturer: Ashley Crown Systems Inc Pub ProductGroup: Book Binding: Paperback ASIN: 0934772037 |
Book Description
Whether your purpose is to increase your knowledge as a buyer or seller, or to pass the California Real Estate Licensing Exam, you will find the information presented in this book to be useful. Our intent is to help you reach your goal. While the book is written with the beginning student of real estate in mind, inquiring consumers also will find answers to their real estate questions. Use this book as an entry to the exciting world of real estate. Each chapter begins with a Pre-test to help you gauge your current knowledge of the material to be presented. Take it without studying, then read the chapter. Then take the identical Post-test at the end of the chapter and check your improvement. To reinforce your understanding of real estate terminology, review the vocabulary at the beginning of each chapter and take the vocabulary matching exercise at the end. The complex world of real estate is presented in simple language with real-world examples to guide each student toward passing the California Real Estate Licensing Exam. After completing the reading assignments and exercises, you will be ready for the serious study required to pass the state exam.Customer Reviews:
Good for the Basics.......2002-01-04
I would not want to take a standardized test based on reading this book. She frequently gives definitions and explanations that raise more questions than they answer.
The style is breezy and appears to be written so that an average high school graduate can understand it. For example, in one chapter she defines what a "Red Flag" is. For more legalistic terms she sometimes oversimplifies the definitions.
By comparison I look at the Nolo Press books. They're written by lawyers but give factual information written in a style that anyone can understand about similar topics covered in this book. They are quite clear, enlightening, and straightforward in style. You'd never know that a lawyer wrote it.
If you want to know the basics without being challenged with any nuances or complexity you will experience in the field as a buyer or seller, this is your book. If you want to understand the complete real estate process before you find an agent, this book will help.
california real estate principles.......2001-07-13
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