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Knowledge management challenges for nongovernment organizations: The health and disability sector in New Zealand

Michelle Soakell‐Ho (Department of Information Systems and Operations Management, University of Auckland Business School, Auckland, New Zealand)
Michael D. Myers (Department of Information Systems and Operations Management, University of Auckland Business School, Auckland, New Zealand)

VINE

ISSN: 0305-5728

Article publication date: 17 May 2011

2388

Abstract

Purpose

The introduction of competitive tendering and contracting and a lack of transparent funding processes has seen a move towards greater contestability of services in the nongovernment organization (NGO) sector. To ameliorate this situation requires a sound understanding of knowledge management (KM) practices. However, not all NGOs have been equally successful at embracing KM principles. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to explore the KM challenges faced by New Zealand NGOs in the health and disability sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Using qualitative research methods, specifically interpretive case study research, the authors studied the KM practices of nine NGOs in the health and disability sector in New Zealand. Qualitative data were obtained from documents and semi‐structured interviews following a dramaturgical approach.

Findings

The findings suggest many barriers to successful implementation of KM in NGOs; some of the most important ones being related to organizational structure and culture. Specifically, tensions between local and national organizational branches, difficulty integrating volunteers and complex funding arrangements are key challenges faced by NGOs in the health and disability sector.

Originality/value

Existing literature suggests that volunteer turnover is a serious impediment to successful KM implementation. The authors' research suggests that volunteer integration, more so than turnover, is an issue. The research also reports on an underlying tension between commercialization and the inherent service culture of the sector. This paper makes recommendations for improved volunteer management and suggests that there is a clear opportunity for better KM systems and practices in the NGO sector.

Keywords

Citation

Soakell‐Ho, M. and Myers, M.D. (2011), "Knowledge management challenges for nongovernment organizations: The health and disability sector in New Zealand", VINE, Vol. 41 No. 2, pp. 212-228. https://doi.org/10.1108/03055721111134826

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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