Guest editorial: Role of knowledge management in turbulent times

Abstract

Knowledge management becomes even more important during turbulent times, such as during a pandemic, as organizations face unprecedented challenges and uncertainties. The rapid spread of the virus and the need for social distancing have disrupted traditional ways of working, requiring organizations to quickly adapt and find new ways to collaborate and communicate. In this context, effective knowledge management can help organizations respond to the crisis by facilitating the sharing of information and best practices, enabling remote collaboration and communication, supporting decision-making and maintaining business continuity by identifying and addressing potential risks.The special issue, Role of Knowledge Management in Turbulent Times, contains eight papers that discuss the research output on how various aspects of knowledge management play a vital role in turbulent times. By investing in knowledge management, organizations can better navigate the challenges of turbulence and emerge stronger in the aftermath.This special issue on knowledge management during times of crisis and business turbulence aimed to bring together researchers and practitioners from various fields to discuss the challenges and potential solutions for effectively managing and using knowledge in times of uncertainty and change. The goal was to provide a platform for sharing insights and perspectives based on current research and practical experience in this area. The focus was on identifying strategies and best practices for effectively navigating crises and maintaining organizational performance and resilience in the face of challenges such as economic downturns, natural disasters and other disruptions. The special issue also sought to explore the role of technology and other tools in supporting knowledge management efforts during times of crisis and to consider the ethical and societal implications of these efforts. Overall, the goal of the special issue was to contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by knowledge management in times of crisis and to provide valuable insights and guidance for researchers, practitioners and policymakers seeking to address these challenges.Digitization can play a key role in helping organizations to manage knowledge and continue operations during a crisis like a pandemic. Digitization allows for the creation and storage of electronic documents and other digital assets which, in turn, facilitate the creation of a knowledge-sharing culture. Digitization also enables organizations to leverage technology to automate various knowledge management processes. Strong leadership support for knowledge management practices is essential for building sustainable knowledge management in organizations. This includes providing resources and support for employees to engage in knowledge sharing, as well as promoting a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The first paper in this special issue entitled "'The old order Changeth!' Building sustainable knowledge management post CO...

Building and nurturing a learning culture: a cross-dynamic and interactional perspective

“…Recent years confirm that the world become more and more uncertain and unpredictable (Farooq, Dash, Vij, & Bashir, 2023). In this context, organizations must deal with these new environmental characteristics for their business and development.…”