MinK: A conceptual framework for individual knowledge assessment in organizational context

Abstract

Effectual knowledge management (KM) entails knowledge assessment capability which enables organizations to identify knowledge holders and hence optimize human capital allocation and retention. The purpose of this paper is to present a new framework, referred to as MinK, that empowers organizations in appraising individual knowledge by providing an inclusive assessment platform. Following a comprehensive literature review, an exploratory study was conducted to explore the underlying constructs of individual knowledge from a practitioner's perspective. Semi-structured interviews were held with 20 senior executives from diverse industries. Managers provided valuable insights about their conceptualization of individual knowledge and the characteristics of knowledge holders. Findings from the interviews complemented the literature in informing the design of the framework. The MinK framework evaluates individuals' knowledge from a number of perspectives using a multi-dimensional scorecard of theoretically grounded measures. The assessment process adopts the 360-degree approach to collate multi-source appraisals from different echelons of the organization, ultimately producing an Individual Knowledge Index for each employee. The index is computed using a unique mathematical formula that combines multi-criteria decision analysis techniques to consolidate results into a single reflective numeral. The incorporation of technology allows the complete automation of the assessment process and helps to address parametric multiplicity and arithmetic complexity. This paper contributes to KM theory by unveiling the underlying constructs of individual knowledge in organizational context and proposing a comprehensive theoretical framework that signifies the pivotal role of individuals in firm knowledge dynamics. It also provides managers with an innovative and integrated individual knowledge assessment framework.