Why am I here?
Many of the names on our class roster are recognizable to me from classes that just wrapped up a couple of weeks ago, so for some this introduction may be familiar. I’m happy to continue our journey together as we learn about knowledge management and grow our skills as leaders in this developing discipline. Because that is essentially why I am here: to learn about knowledge management, to become a leader within my organization, and hopefully, to become a leader in the KM community.
I work for a large, faith based, nonprofit, human service organization called Ascentria Care Alliance, which has over 40 programs across five of the six New England states (Rhode Island is the only state with no program representation). The types of programs offered include those for children and families (adoption, foster care, residential homes for young women and children), intellectually disabled adults (residential home and community support services), refugees and immigrants (resettlement, education, job placement, housing, community support services, legal), and older adults (independent housing, assisted living, nursing care, in home care). There are also social enterprise programs that focus on transportation and interpretation services. Historically, the data and information collected on our clients and business was done so for the benefit of our funding agencies, donors, auditors, and the like. We have never actively collected or analyzed information to learn more about the organization, or to refine and grow programs. It is my belief that if we are to fulfill our mission and vision…
Our Mission We are called to strengthen communities by empowering people to respond to life’s challenges. Our Vision We envision thriving communities where everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential regardless of background or disadvantage. Together with our partners, we inspire people to help one another reach beyond their current circumstances and realize new possibilities.
…and prove our impact on the communities that we serve, then we must have a clear understanding of ourselves and our program outcomes. In my opinion, the best way to do this is to implement knowledge management practices, or as Michael Koenig wrote, to develop “…rich, deep, and open communication and information access—and deploy it broadly across the firm.” (2012).
As someone who is passionate about knowledge management, I believe my role is to develop a strong understanding of the skills and tools of the discipline so that I can communicate and practice them effectively. One of the most important skills I would like to develop is leadership skills, because knowledge management cannot happen in a vacuum. To be successful, knowledge management must enable connections between people, processes and technology, which requires knowledge workers to understand, listen, engage and lead. And these connections must extend past the walls of the organization, reaching out to others who do this work and want to expand their reach and impact to make significant changes in their business sector.
After reading the syllabus for this course I am sure that what we learn here will help me on my journey, and help us all develop the knowledge needed to excel in our jobs. I look forward to the next twelve weeks of class and getting to know you all a bit more!
References
Koenig, Michael E.D. (May 4, 2012). What is KM? Knowledge Management Explained. Retrieved from http://www.kmworld.com/Articles/Editorial/What-Is-.../What-is-KM-Knowledge-Management-Explained-82405.aspx