Using actor-network theory to understand knowledge sharing in an architecture firm

• This study investigates knowledge sharing in a large Scandinavian architectural firm, ArchFirm. In particular, a knowledge management initiative called the Knowledge Building (KB) is examined. The study is based on a case study consisting of a document review and 12 interviews. Drawing on Actor-Network Theory (ANT) as analytical lense, KB is conceptualized as a heterogenous network consisting of several actants, human and non-human. Key aspects of ANT used when analyzing data is; translation, semiotic rationality, punctualization and black-boxing, focal actants and obligatory passage point (OPP). ANT as theoretical approach created an opportunity to view the intricate nature of knowledge sharing in an architecture firm from a different perspective compared to previous research. This work also opens a window for further research in the area of knowledge sharing as it relates to architectural practice.

Ämnesord

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Samhällsbyggnadsteknik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Civil Engineering (hsv//eng)

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Sociologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Sociology (hsv//eng)

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Annan samhällsvetenskap -- Övrig annan samhällsvetenskap (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Other Social Sciences -- Other Social Sciences not elsewhere specified (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

case study

knowledge sharing

Actor Network Theory (ANT)

professional networks

professional communities

architecture firm

Publikations- och innehållstyp

kon (ämneskategori)

ref (ämneskategori)