Knowledge capture and retrieval in construction projects

Abstract

The value of project knowledge to the management of a current project is considered crucial to successful project delivery. However, knowledge capture and retrieval suffers from a number of deficiencies, which may result in the loss of huge amount of knowledge and difficulties in retrieving captured knowledge. This study aims to develop a reliable framework for the capture and retrieval of organisational knowledge for use in construction projects. Adopting an empiricist methodology, it includes a survey conducted to investigate the current practice, and semi-structured interviews to explore best practice. The results obtained are used as a foundation for a framework that can assist construction companies to avoid the loss of project knowledge and increase performance and innovation in projects. The findings indicate that project review (PR) is the most appropriate method for achieving knowledge capture; in addition, this should be conducted in a systematic and precise way and results should be presented in the form of instructions or in a checklist format, forming short and precise insights. For quick and efficient retrieval knowledge must be categorised based on project management processes and activities, using an IT system with components designed to manage knowledge and locate experts. Nevertheless; the framework developed suggested that regardless of the effectiveness of the approach to knowledge capture and retrieval, without a knowledge-sharing environment the application will not benefit from these methods. Open culture and resources are critical for providing a knowledge-sharing environment and that leadership has to sustain project knowledge capture and retrieval, providing full support for its application. The framework has been evaluated by academics and practitioners who are experts in their field. The results have indicated that the framework and its components are both applicable and effective