Applying gamification in the context of knowledge management

In this paper we present the preliminary results of an ongoing project called (KMM+G). It explores an approach to improve participation in knowledge management processes, in software development companies, through gamification. The paper documents a case study in which we compared two approaches to knowledge construction and refinement. One approach is based on email communication, document templates and the guidance of a project leader. The other approach incorporates gamification mechanics known as PBL (points, medal, and leaderboard). We observed that gamification mechanics substantially improve aspects like: participation, contribution, collaboration and knowledge refinement in the process of software development.