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44 Chapter 2

Individual
and group
learning

Formulate Knowledge Codified Knowledge
problem claim knowledge claim
claim formulation claim evaluation

Information
acquisition

Figure 2.6
Knowledge production processes in the McElroy KM Cycle

In knowledge production, the key processes are: individual and group learning,
knowledge claim formulation, information acquisition, codifi ed knowledge claim,
and knowledge claim evaluation. Figure 2.6 illustrates these knowledge production
processes.
Individual and group learning represents the fi rst step in organizational learning.
Knowledge is information until it is validated. Knowledge claim validation involves
codifi cation at an organizational level. A formalized procedure is required for the
receipt and codifi cation of individual and group innovations. Information acquisition
is the process by which an organization deliberately or serendipitously acquires knowl-
edge claims or information produced by others, usually external to the organization.
This stage plays a fundamental role in the formulation of new knowledge claims
at the organizational level. Examples include competitive intelligence, subscription
services, library services, research initiatives, think tanks, consortia, and personalized
information services. Knowledge claim evaluation is the process by which knowledge
claims are evaluated to determine their veracity and value. This implies that they
are of greater value than existing knowledge in the organizational knowledge base.
Figure 2.7 shows some of the components of this stage of the knowledge cycle.
Knowledge integration is the process by which an organization introduces new
knowledge claims to its operating environment and retires old ones. This includes all
knowledge transmission such as teaching, knowledge sharing, and other social activi-
ties that communicate either an understanding of previously produced organizational