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CONTENTS

List of Tables and Figures ix

1. Introducing Knowledge Work: Processes,
Purposes and Contexts 1
Introduction 2
What Is Knowledge? 3
Structural Perspectives and Types of
Knowledge 7
Process and Practice Perspectives:
Knowledge and Knowing 14
Perspectives Compared 17
Scientific Management as Knowledge
Management 18
Managing Knowledge in the ‘Information Age’ 21
What Is Knowledge Work? 24
Conclusions 25

2. Knowledge-Intensive Firms 28
Introduction 29
Types of Knowledge-Intensive Firm 29
The Distinctive Characteristics of Knowledge
Work and Knowledge Workers 32
Facilitating Knowledge Work – Organizing
as an Adhocracy 35
Structural Constraints on Knowledge Work 38
Cultural Conditions in Support of
Knowledge Work 40
Conclusions 45
Case Study 2.1: Scienceco Managing an Expert Workforce 46
Questions 53
Summary of Key Learning Points 53

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