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Metaphoric boundary objects as co‐ordinating mechanisms in the knowledge sharing of innovation processes

Metaphoric boundary objects as co‐ordinating mechanisms in the knowledge sharing of innovation... Purpose – In order that knowledge distribution in companies can be efficient and effective, it should take place without boundaries. However, this is not often the reality. People tend to build up their own boundaries, often creating overly technical terminology so that others cannot participate in what they do. In other words, identity hinges on difference. Establishing these identities weakens the existence of real innovative companies and reinforces barriers within and between organisations. The ability of companies to transcend these barriers is partly based on the recognition of boundary objects. This means that the better the companies understand the nature of the existing boundary objects, the better they can take actions that will help to overcome existing barriers. Therefore the goal of the paper is to highlight boundary objects that co‐ordinate knowledge sharing within and between firms' innovation processes. Design/methodology/approach – There are many different types of boundary objects. The conceptual paper especially addresses the question of what kind of role metaphoric boundary objects play in the knowledge sharing within and between firms' innovation processes. The study is conducted with the help of a literature survey. Findings – The results of the study suggest that metaphoric boundary objects may play a significant role as a co‐ordinating mechanism in the knowledge sharing of companies' innovation processes. Originality/value – The relevance of metaphoric boundary objects resides in the fact that with them companies can create the necessary shared understanding behind the framing and resolution of the emerging problem in innovation activities. http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png European Journal of Innovation Management Emerald Publishing

Metaphoric boundary objects as co‐ordinating mechanisms in the knowledge sharing of innovation processes

European Journal of Innovation Management , Volume 8 (3): 13 – Sep 1, 2005

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References (81)

Publisher
Emerald Publishing
Copyright
Copyright © 2005 Emerald Group Publishing Limited. All rights reserved.
ISSN
1460-1060
DOI
10.1108/14601060510610180
Publisher site
See Article on Publisher Site

Abstract

Purpose – In order that knowledge distribution in companies can be efficient and effective, it should take place without boundaries. However, this is not often the reality. People tend to build up their own boundaries, often creating overly technical terminology so that others cannot participate in what they do. In other words, identity hinges on difference. Establishing these identities weakens the existence of real innovative companies and reinforces barriers within and between organisations. The ability of companies to transcend these barriers is partly based on the recognition of boundary objects. This means that the better the companies understand the nature of the existing boundary objects, the better they can take actions that will help to overcome existing barriers. Therefore the goal of the paper is to highlight boundary objects that co‐ordinate knowledge sharing within and between firms' innovation processes. Design/methodology/approach – There are many different types of boundary objects. The conceptual paper especially addresses the question of what kind of role metaphoric boundary objects play in the knowledge sharing within and between firms' innovation processes. The study is conducted with the help of a literature survey. Findings – The results of the study suggest that metaphoric boundary objects may play a significant role as a co‐ordinating mechanism in the knowledge sharing of companies' innovation processes. Originality/value – The relevance of metaphoric boundary objects resides in the fact that with them companies can create the necessary shared understanding behind the framing and resolution of the emerging problem in innovation activities.

Journal

European Journal of Innovation ManagementEmerald Publishing

Published: Sep 1, 2005

Keywords: Metaphors; Tacit knowledge; Explicit knowledge; Knowledge sharing; Innovation

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