The purpose of the paper is to propose a methodology for organizations to use to assess the risk of knowledge loss should a specific employee leave. The article also proposes…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the paper is to propose a methodology for organizations to use to assess the risk of knowledge loss should a specific employee leave. The article also proposes actions that can be taken by the organization to capture this knowledge before it is lost.
Design/methodology/approach
Applied research based on the systems analysis approach.
Findings
The paper finds that it is possible to create a system for identifying which knowledge is most likely to be lost and to guide an organization towards the appropriate actions for capturing that knowledge before it is lost.
Research limitations/implications
The process has only been piloted on a single organization and with a limited number of subjects. However, the results are promising, and future research is focused on exploring generalizability.
Practical implications
The paper provides a process that will assist managers in making better decisions when allocating resources for capturing knowledge from departing individuals.
Social implications
The process introduces a new social dynamic in the assessment of individuals which may have an impact on organizational dynamics.
Originality/value
This is a very innovative and original application of traditional risk assessment principles.