Title: Systemically directed knowledge management for public and private organisational life: some perspectives from South Africa

Authors: Norma R.A. Romm; Bongani I. Nkambule

Addresses: University of South Africa (Unisa), Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa ' University of South Africa (Unisa), Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa

Abstract: In this article, we explore options for organising effective and ethical knowledge management, using Nonaka and colleagues' model of knowledge creation, which is premised on principles of ba (where people recognise their occupation of a shared space with others). We relate this model to our reflections on the applicability of the African concept of Ubuntu to knowledge management practices in public and private organisations/enterprises. We use as examples research in certain public schools in South Africa, and community-engaged research in relation to a particular social entrepreneurial initiative undertaken to address social and environmental challenges as part of the 'business'.

Keywords: ba principles; collective orientation; knowledge construction; shared space; sociocultural milieu; stakeholder engagement; Ubuntu; South Africa.

DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2024.139203

International Journal of Applied Systemic Studies, 2024 Vol.11 No.1, pp.68 - 82

Accepted: 16 Jan 2024
Published online: 25 Jun 2024 *

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