Adam, A; Gluch, P and Julin, J (2014) Using actor-network theory to understand knowledge sharing in an architecture firm. In: Raiden, A and Aboagye-Nimo, E (eds.) Proceedings of 30th Annual ARCOM Conference, 1-3 September 2014, Portsmouth, UK.
Abstract
This study investigates knowledge sharing in a large Scandinavian architectural firm, ArchFirm. In particular, a knowledge management initiative called the Knowledge Building (KB) is examined. The study is based on a case study consisting of a document review and 12 interviews. Drawing on Actor-Network Theory (ANT) as analytical lense, KB is conceptualized as a heterogenous network consisting of several actants, human and non-human. Key aspects of ANT used when analyzing data is; translation, semiotic rationality, punctualization and black-boxing, focal actants and obligatory passage point (OPP). ANT as theoretical approach created an opportunity to view the intricate nature of knowledge sharing in an architecture firm from a different perspective compared to previous research. This work also opens a window for further research in the area of knowledge sharing as it relates to architectural practice.
| Item Type: | Conference Paper (Paper) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | actor network theory; knowledge sharing; professional networks; architecture firm; case study |
| Index terms: | interview, window, architectural practice, architectural firm, case study, knowledge management, rationality, knowledge sharing, actor-network theory, drawing |
| Subjects: | decision-making and reasoning, technical documentation, knowledge management, architectural elements, theoretical framing, professional development, data collection methods, business |
| Topics: | Information Management, Business Strategy, Research Practice, Design Practice |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here