International Journal of System Dynamics Applications, 3(1), 71-89, January-March 2014 71
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ABSTRACT
Knowledge is vital in achieving enterprise growth and development. This paper argues that treating knowl-
edge management as a Complex Adaptive System (CAS) presents an alternative lens within which processes
within knowledge management can be better understood and hence allows scholars in enterprise development
design successful intervention programs. The paper presents a conceptual and system dynamic model that
reveals the structural underpinnings of knowledge identifcation and management and in so doing makes
clear infuence points where interventions can be made. The paper presents a systematic strategy of employ-
ing Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) as interventions in the structural underpinnings of
knowledge identifcation and management and models them within the system dynamic model. The system
dynamic model developed is presented as a learning tool for researchers who can further modify it and ap-
ply in different scenarios. The validation of a section of the system dynamic model is done on a Micro and
Small Enterprises (MSEs) association. The validation reveals conformity to the structural representation of
the developed model in a real life scenario. However, differences are noticed in the ICT interventions that
are employed. The paper also presents researchers and practitioners in enterprise development with a model
that they can use to design intervention programs in knowledge management.
An Adaptive ICT-Enabled
Model for Knowledge
Identifcation and Management
for Enterprise Development
Agnes Mindila, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
Anthony Rodrigues, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Nairobi,
Kenya
Dorothy McCormick, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
Ronald Mwangi, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
Keywords: Complex Adaptive System (CAS), Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Knowledge
Management, Knowledge Stocks and Flows, Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), System
Dynamics (SD)
DOI: 10.4018/ijsda.2014010104