Promoting people‐focused knowledge management: the case of IDOM

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to provide a practical experience in a leading Spanish engineering company in order to promote people‐focused knowledge management and socialization and collective learning processes within the firm.Design/methodology/approachFrom an epistemological perspective, the survey assumes a phenomenological approach, aimed at achieving a holistic understanding and interpretation of organizational processes. The evidence‐collection sources have been documents and open‐ended interviews.FindingsThe case shows the paramount relevance of articulating a knowledge‐sharing culture throughout management systems and organizational policies and routines, in order to guarantee the alignment of individual and organizational mental models.Originality/valueThe value of this paper lies in providing knowledge management practitioners with a useful insight about how to achieve effective socialization and collective learning processes within their companies.