Understanding and Developing Effective Knowledge Management Systems

Knowledge is constantly generated through research and experience. With our total knowledge estimated to be doubling every 7 years, we question how effectively it is being managed to ensure that end-users are aware of, can rapidly access and are able to challenge and test this knowledge as it applies to their needs. How do users want and need knowledge – and are our current delivery mechanisms effectively meeting this need?

Phase One of this project will investigate current knowledge management systems in both public and private sector and capture an understanding of irrigators’ decision-making processes and influences.

Key stakeholders will be engaged to integrate and query this information to develop a model for collaborative, targeted irrigation extension activities between public and private sectors, for the cotton and grains industries.  It will investigate the influence of a wide range of mechanisms including printed/web information, learning groups, one–on–one consulting, training and decision support tools.

In the second phase of this project, the model will be implemented, evaluated and refined to form a basis for planning future activities. This project will form a basis for developing frameworks, resources and capacity for knowledge management partnerships in rural systems.

To find out more about workshops, training and tools for irrigated cotton and grains, visit www.cottonandgrains.irrigationfutures.org.au.

Aims

• Assess existing frameworks for efficient, rapid transfer of new, timely information to end-users and from this develop new tools and strategies for knowledge management.
• Understand the needs, wants and other factors influencing decisions and utilisation of research information by primary producers, consultants, resellers, extension networks and organisations.
• Effectively partner public and private sector information service providers across commodities to achieve enhanced water management outcomes.

Outcomes

Long-term collaborative arrangements established for water management extension to meet needs of end-users.

• Understanding and systems in place to improve water management techniques
• Effective knowledge management systems identified, tested and evaluated
• Primary producers and consultant agronomists utilising irrigation knowledge resources and decision support tools that have been developed to meet their needs
• Links between commodity groups and industry partners understood and strengthened
• Collaboration between public and private sector knowledge management systems optimised
• Systems thought and knowledge planning skills of managers and extension team enhanced

Background

Significant investment is made in rural industry and natural resource management research, development and extension. Coupled with on-farm experiences and private sector consulting development, the body of knowledge to draw from in making any decision is ever increasing in both quantity and complexity. This project aims to develop systems that will assist organisation in managing this knowledge in order to be better placed to assist their clients’ decision making.  It will look at the full range of mechanisms including printed/web information, learning groups, one–on–one consulting, training, decision support tools, etc. The issue is one that applies to all commodities – this project will focus on rural irrigation systems.

Publications and Resources