Umaima Jameel
Bc240423826
Question: Compare and contrast at least two knowledge
management cycles (such as the Meyer and Zack KM cycle, Bukowitz
and Williams KM cycle, McElroy KM cycle, or Wiig KM cycle). In your
response, explain the key stages of each cycle, their underlying
philosophies, and how they address knowledge creation, sharing,
and application.
1. Meyer and Zack KM Cycle
Key Stages:
1. Acquisition– Identifying and obtaining knowledge from internal or external
sources.
2. Refinement – Filtering, organizing, and formatting the knowledge.
3. storage/Repository– Placing the refined knowledge into an accessible
repository.
4. Distribution– Disseminating knowledge to the right people at the right
time.
5. Presentation/Utilization– Making knowledge usable through interfaces and
applications.
Underlying Philosophy:
Meyer and Zack approach knowledge management similarly to
manufacturing. They view knowledge as a product moving through a value
chain, emphasizing quality and process efficiency. Their model is linear and
structured, focusing on systematically managing the flow of knowledge
assets.
Knowledge Creation, Sharing, and Application:
- Creation: Indirectly addressed through acquisition, where new knowledge is
identified and captured.
- Sharing: Strong emphasis on distribution and presentation for effective use.
- Application: Emphasized through the final stage (utilization), ensuring
knowledge is accessible and usable in decision-making or operations.
2. Bukowitz and Williams KM Cycle
Key Stages:
1. Get– Seeking out information needed for decision-making.
2. Use– Applying knowledge to generate value.
3. Learn – Reflecting on outcomes to refine practices.
4. Contribute – Sharing personal knowledge with the organization.
5. Assess – Evaluating the knowledge environment and gaps.
6. Build/Sustain – Enhancing and maintaining knowledge capabilities.
Underlying Philosophy:
This model views KM as dynamic and driven by demand rather than supply. It
integrates knowledge management with strategy and focuses on learning
and adaptability. It also emphasizes individual and organizational behavior
and values.
Knowledge Creation, Sharing, and Application:
- Creation: Explicitly included in the “Learn” and “Build/Sustain” stages.
- Sharing: Central to “Contribute,” encouraging a culture of knowledge
exchange.
- Application: Addressed in the “Use” phase, linking knowledge to business
value.
Comparison:
| Aspect | Meyer and Zack | Bukowitz and Williams |
| Orientation | Supply-driven, linear | Demand-driven, dynamic |
| Focus | Knowledge as a product | Knowledge as a strategic asset |
| Creation | Implied via acquisition | Explicit through learning and building |
| Sharing | Through distribution | Through contribution |
| Application | Final stage (utilization) | Early (use) and ongoing |
| Flexibility | Structured process | Adaptive to organizational needs |
Conclusion:
While Meyer and Zack’s model provides a systematic, process-oriented
approach suitable for environments where knowledge quality control and
structure are essential, Bukowitz and Williams offer a more flexible,
behaviorally informed framework that aligns with fast-changing business
environments and emphasizes learning and strategic alignment. Together,
they illustrate the breadth of approaches in knowledge management—from
engineering-style control to human-centered adaptability.
