Cognitive style as a factor in the effective reuse of knowledge management systems

Knowledge is perceived as being an organization´s most valuable asset in today´s world. Consequently organizations are becoming aware that they must manage the creation, storage and distribution of their knowledge within the organization. However the benefits accruing from the management of knowledge can only be realized when that knowledge is reused, either by learning from past experiences in order to prevent mistakes being repeated or as a basis for innovation. The process of reuse therefore plays a pivotal role in the leveraging of knowledge assets to sustain competitive advantage in organizations. This research investigates the role of cognitive style (innovative/adaptive) of an individual and how it influences the way in which he/she uses a knowledge repository. A study, using the Kirton Adaption-Innovation Inventory, was carried out in the customer support department of a large electronics company. The implications of the findings are discussed and further research directions are recommended.