Organisational learning in Crime Intelligence : a qualitative review

Abstract

The twofold objectives of the study on which this article reports were, firstly, to investigate which stages should be evident during organisational learning and, secondly, to determine at which levels organisational learning should be implemented. A qualitative research approach was used and semi-structured interviews were conducted. Commanders, team leaders and operational members participated in this study. Content analysis was used to identify codes and themes. The findings indicated that preparation, contribution and outcomes were identified consequential stages & managerial, organisational, personal and work-related categories were identified as the specific levels at which organisational learning should be implemented to anticipate, prevent and monitor criminal activities. The contribution to the body of knowledge is that a flow diagram was developed to indicate the specific stages and accompanying levels of the organisational learning process within Crime Intelligence in order to improve the flow of knowledge to combat crime.