Knowledge management for high technology industries

Abstract

This article aims to contribute to Knowledge Management Theory centering its analysis towards a Social Organization perspective. The Knowledge Management Model developed by Fraunhofer Institute was partially used as a reference for this work. The focus is specifically oriented to Human Resources, Leadership and Organizational Culture issues. For the research, a main problem was defined which asked the question: How can an industry, that manufactures from customers orders, in a long-term commitment and lead time, generate state of the art knowledge, considering accelerated moves of technological boundaries? This question required both a qualitative and quantitative approach, addressed to a single case study, supported by bibliographical research, questionnaires and interviews. Finally, some conclusions were made: innovative aspects of High technology are limited by the available knowledge in related sciences and also in its applications; High technology enterprises themselves generate innovation through R&D aiming to fulfill the lack of governmental investment programmes. To implement adaptations required by new technological and competitive order, a cluster of human competencies are demanded. These are developed through educational processes which include personnel and leadership development. Organizational Culture can also contribute to the KM process based on continuous improvement, customer and shareholder satisfaction.