Siemens: Expanding the Knowledge Management System ShareNet to Research & Development

Abstract

The case study describes the issues surrounding the expansion of the community-based knowledge management system (KMS) ShareNet to the research and development (R&D) function at Siemens Information and Communication Networks (ICN). It sets the stage for a decision situation that Siemens ICN’s vice president business transformation and knowledge management, Janina Kugel, faced in 2003. While R&D usage rates differed not remarkably from other Siemens ICN functions, a strategic emphasis on innovative products and services —as well as ambitious targets for leveraging offshore development resources — necessitated a stronger penetration of this highly relevant function. Could this extension build on earlier experiences gained with the best practice implementation approach at the sales and marketing function? The case description provides a chronological account of ShareNet’s conceptualization, development, international rollout, and operation. It pays attention to information systems (IS) implementation issues, change management, and current developments in the field of knowledge management (KM).