Using Knowledge Management Systems to Structure Knowledgeable Practices

The purpose of this study is to explore the role of knowledge management systems (KMS) in structuring knowledgeable practices within organizations. Specifically, we consider how intellectual property lawyers use knowledge management systems to structure the practice of patenting.We employ an interpretive case study focused on the knowledge management practices and systems employed by intellectual property lawyers at one site of a large Canadian law firm. Interview, document and observational data were collected during a 15-month period from September 2004 to November 2005.Using a practice lens, the lawyers employed four technologies-in-practice to structure their use of knowledge management technologies: (i) collaboration, (ii) delegated use, (iii) conversion, and (iv) improvisation. The lawyer´s knowledgeable activity emerged around various contested spaces delineated by these technologies-in-practice. Where the lawyers added the most value for their clients by navigating these contested knowledge spaces, advanced digital technologies were often absent.