Knowledge Management at Hsbc Essay Example
Knowledge Management at Hsbc Essay Example

Knowledge Management at Hsbc Essay Example

Available Only on StudyHippo
  • Pages: 4 (1008 words)
  • Published: December 22, 2016
  • Type: Research Paper
View Entire Sample
Text preview

Managing knowledge within an organization is a difficult task, as it is often hidden, undervalued, and unused. This challenge also arises when employees leave the company, taking valuable knowledge with them. HSBC is confronted with this challenge in managing the flow of knowledge within its organization. The process of knowledge management in HSBC faces six challenges at every stage of the process flow, and neglecting these tasks limits the ability to fully utilize its knowledge assets.

HSBC has implemented Knowledge Acquisition (KA) as part of their efforts to build knowledge-based systems. KA is a line of research focused on developing methods and software tools to provide knowledge content for these systems. The main challenge is to transform available information into usable knowledge. This may involve converting tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge, identifying existing knowledge gaps, integra

...

ting knowledge from various sources (such as different experts or distributed sources on the web), and gathering knowledge from unstructured media (such as natural language or diagrams).

Knowledge acquisition (KA) is a mature field that involves acquiring and modeling knowledge. Knowledge modeling plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between knowledge acquisition and its practical use. For HSBC, it is important to not only acquire knowledge but also model it in the required format for the industry.

Knowledge Retrieval refers to the challenge of finding specific information in a large knowledge repository. This challenge encompasses two related problems. The first problem involves locating previously stored knowledge by understanding the structure of the archive in order to navigate it effectively. The second problem involves retrieving the subset of content from the repository that is pertinen

View entire sample
Join StudyHippo to see entire essay

to a specific problem.

The problem of dynamically extracting knowledge from a repository can cause difficulties for a knowledge retrieval system in HSBC, as the repository frequently changes during problem-solving. Additionally, reusing knowledge is a challenge as knowledge bases or systems are often built from scratch and require different representations depending on the problem-solving tasks they are intended for.

HSBC's goal is to increase the value of its current knowledge assets by effectively harnessing and utilizing knowledge. The bank understands the significance of knowledge publishing, which entails delivering the right knowledge in the correct format, location, and time to the intended recipient.

The presentation and visualization of knowledge can differ based on user needs. The quality of this presentation is not solely subjective but has a significant impact on the value of the knowledge for users. Considering different perspectives and agendas is essential in achieving the appropriate presentation. Furthermore, comprehending the content is vital to ensure timely publication of relevant information.

Maintenance is a final challenge for HSBC as they strive to keep the knowledge repository operational. This includes the necessary task of updating content regularly, such as revising price lists. Additionally, a more extensive analysis of the knowledge content may be needed. Certain information remains relevant for a long duration, while other knowledge quickly becomes outdated. To ensure the longevity of an active knowledge base, it is crucial to identify which parts of the repository need to be discarded and when.

Maintenance issues in HDFC also encompass content verification, validation, and safety certification. KM strategies employed at HDFC entail the utilization of various approaches such as simple mechanisms (e.g.

training programs and seminar series), technology integration, framework adoption (including concept mapping), and fostering communities of practice for knowledge capturing and sharing. For instance, six studies effectively employed simple mechanisms like training sessions, workshops, mentoring/apprenticeships, and interviews.

Some training programs are web-based or virtual, while others are face-to-face as it is considered crucial. Seminar series were also implemented as a dominant KM approach. These seminars involved interviewing managers and/or employees by their peers to capture the knowledge of "experts" planning to leave. Other seminar series included interactive classes that involved group work, problem solving, and coaching.

In HSBC, KM is often portrayed as primarily consisting of efficient and effective IT and ICT systems. Technology systems play a crucial role in KM initiatives by organizing, codifying, distributing, and maintaining knowledge resources. These systems are utilized to manage both explicit and tacit forms of knowledge, making them a key aspect of many KM strategies.

HSBC introduced another framework that focuses on mapping out knowledge, routines, capabilities, and inertia as a means to advance knowledge management (KM) within an organization or unit. The basic concept is that dormant resources have the potential to be developed and can be mobilized through managerial or legislative/environmental factors. The framework recognizes that different ratios of active and latent resources, routines, and capabilities have varying levels of adaptability. This tool is utilized to promote KM in HSBC.

The basic concept of this idea is that dormant resources can be activated by managerial or legislative/environmental factors, and that different ratios of active to dormant resources, routines, and capabilities can have varying degrees of adaptability. In stable circumstances, adaptable organizations will also be

flexible and responsive, while less adaptable organizations are more efficient but have fewer resources to utilize (thus more likely to maintain the status quo). Mapping has been used by others as a way to represent knowledge-oriented practices. Communities of Practice (CoP) are also often considered a valuable knowledge management strategy and are extensively discussed.

HSBC has three main underlying structures that can vary in format, either virtual or face to face.

The domain refers to the sphere of knowledge and expertise held by its members.

The concept of community encompasses the connection, bond, and feeling of belonging among its members.

The CoP focuses on practice, which includes the common set of frameworks, ideas, and tools used by members in their work context. The objectives of the CoP are in line with the strategic purpose of the host firm.

The Community of Practice (CoP) is guided by a Leader or Moderator who leads the CoP and ensures its objectives are met. Assisted by a Core Team, the Leader develops activities and workshops for the community. The active members bring their distinct roles, knowledge, and expertise to contribute to the community.

Get an explanation on any task
Get unstuck with the help of our AI assistant in seconds
New