Harnessing The Power of Culture and Cultural Intel
Harnessing The Power of Culture and Cultural Intel
Harnessing The Power of Culture and Cultural Intel
Abstract
1. Introduction
1
From Theory of Knowledge Management to Practice
Over the years, organizations such as Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Nike, Siemens,
Unilever, IBM, Intel, Procter & Gamble, Boeing, Ernst & Young, Honeywell, Miter,
KPMG, and Ford Motor Company have undertaken many KM initiatives, developed
a knowledge base, developed training materials and offered training sessions on KM,
implemented knowledge management systems (KMS), created knowledge networks,
and created knowledge-sharing cultures to tackle the loss of explicit and implicit
knowledge. These initiatives can yield several advantages, including enhanced effi-
ciency, productivity, and customer service. KM is crucial in stimulating individuals’
thinking and influencing their actions.
KM is a main competitive advantage in the era of the knowledge economy or the
Third Industrial Revolution. KM encompasses a range of technological, cultural,
and procedural approaches that organizations employ to enhance the value derived
from knowledge [12]. This involves improving, identifying, collecting, sharing,
and utilizing existing organizational knowledge and accessing or developing new
knowledge through partnerships or ventures [13]. KM goes beyond the scope of
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Harnessing the Power of Culture and Cultural Intelligence within Knowledge Management
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1002304
information systems and technology, heavily drawing from social and cultural ele-
ments. It also intersects with organizational development, innovation, and competi-
tive intelligence [14–16].
Figure 1.
Knowledge management process.
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From Theory of Knowledge Management to Practice
3. Knowledge sharing: Once the knowledge has been captured, the next step
involves sharing it with employees. Cultivating a knowledge-sharing culture
within the organization is essential, as it encourages employees to disseminate
knowledge actively. Employing KMS or utilizing other appropriate channels
facilitates the efficient and widespread distribution of knowledge among em-
ployees.
3. Culture
complement one another. Rather than solely relying on hard work, effective organiza-
tions emphasize working smarter. Within the organizational context, culture becomes
the determining factor that defines the realm of possibilities.
role in KM, with a positive association between CI and KM processes [34]. Meta-
cognitive CI helps establish cultural commonalities, while cognitive CI enhances
understanding of the international environment. Motivational CI promotes enjoy-
ment during cross-cultural interactions and facilitates knowledge sharing, while
behavioral CI enables effective cross-cultural communication and knowledge acquisi-
tion [35, 36].
Several studies have confirmed the positive impact of CI on knowledge sharing
and standard and reverse knowledge transfer [37, 38]. Additionally, CI helps mitigate
the negative effects of language barring on knowledge obscuring and collecting, lead-
ing to improved knowledge practices [39].
4. IBM
which emphasizes thinking and creating solutions. IBM’s cognitive quotient (CQ )
measures the company’s ability to acquire, process, and apply knowledge. To over-
come cultural barriers and promote knowledge sharing, IBM has established global
communities of practice that bring together employees from diverse regions and
backgrounds. These communities are platforms for sharing best practices, exchanging
insights, and collaborating on projects [42]. By facilitating cross-cultural knowledge
exchange, IBM encourages the development of innovative ideas and solutions that
cater to diverse market needs.
Furthermore, IBM leverages technology to facilitate knowledge management
across its global operations. Collaborative platforms and digital tools enable employ-
ees from different cultural backgrounds to access and share information easily,
irrespective of geographical boundaries [42]. This technology-driven approach
streamlines the flow of knowledge and fosters collaboration and collective learning
within the organization.
Additionally, IBM has implemented training programs and initiatives to raise
awareness about cultural differences and their impact on knowledge management.
With a strong knowledge-sharing and collaboration culture and substantial invest-
ments in KM initiatives, IBM maintains a high CQ. The company’s continuous
approach to measuring CQ involves data collection, analysis, and action to improve
[43]. This approach has helped IBM maintain its leadership position in the IT indus-
try. By promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding, IBM equips its employees
with the skills necessary to navigate diverse cultural contexts and effectively collabo-
rate with colleagues across the globe.
5. Unilever
Unilever, a global consumer goods company established in 1930, has a rich history
of innovation and has played a leading role in developing various product categories,
such as detergents, shampoos, and foods. Unilever, a global corporation with opera-
tions spanning over 190 countries, boasts a diverse workforce comprising employees
from more than 100 nations. The company fosters a culture of diversity, inclusion,
and respect, actively encouraging employees to share their ideas and perspec-
tives. Recognizing the significance of cultural Intelligence (CQ ) in a globalized
environment, Unilever prioritizes the development of this essential skill among its
employees.
Unilever’s leadership team plays a pivotal role in promoting the culture of CQ.
Their commitment to cultivating cultural intelligence cascades throughout the
organization, which reinforces its importance and influences employees at all levels.
Unilever’s endeavors to promote CQ have earned recognition from various organiza-
tions. In 2019, Unilever was recognized as one of the top 15 companies for diversity
and as a leading Inclusion Index company with inclusive culture as an integral part of
growing a sustainable organization [44]. The Human Rights Campaign also acknowl-
edged Unilever as one of the best places to work for LGBTQ employees in 2017 [45].
Unilever’s dedication to fostering CQ aligns with its strategy for success in the global
marketplace. By cultivating a culture that embraces CQ , Unilever can attract and
retain top talent, cultivate strong relationships with customers and partners world-
wide, and effectively drive innovation. By prioritizing KM and CQ , Unilever is forg-
ing an agile and adaptable organizational culture that is better positioned to thrive in
the global marketplace.
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From Theory of Knowledge Management to Practice
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Harnessing the Power of Culture and Cultural Intelligence within Knowledge Management
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1002304
Organizations are intricate and dynamic systems that constantly evolve. They
must navigate various elements such as profitability, culture, politics, social net-
works, communities, individuals, values, ethics, and goals within their environment.
Knowledge databases become susceptible to rapid decay when sharing embedded
knowledge is not ingrained within a specific culture [47].
Both IBM and Unilever share similarities in harnessing the power of culture and
CQ within KM. To begin with, both organizations acknowledged the value of cultural
diversity in their workforce, actively seeking talent from various backgrounds and
promoting inclusivity. Next, they invested in CQ training programs to equip their
employees with the necessary skills to navigate and adapt to diverse cultural contexts.
Lastly, both companies instigated robust KMS systems and platforms to facilitate
collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation.
Despite these similarities, there are notable differences between the two cases. As
a technology company, IBM greatly emphasizes leveraging digital tools and platforms
for KM. They developed AI-enriched systems for market and competitive intelligence,
complementing human expertise. On the other hand, as a consumer goods company,
Unilever focused on aligning its organizational culture with KM goals and driving
innovation through curiosity and openness. They emphasized forming communities
of practice and adopting common language and practices to facilitate knowledge
sharing.
To harness the power of culture and CQ within KM, organizations can follow
a series of best practices: embrace cultural diversity and inclusivity; invest in CQ
training; leverage technology and AI; establish communities of practice; promote
curiosity and openness; encourage cross-cultural assignments and exposure; invest in
comprehensive training and development programs.
These practices collectively will drive innovation, collaboration, and organiza-
tional success.
7. Conclusions
The chapter unfolds structured, beginning with an introduction that sets the stage
for subsequent discussions. This is followed by an in-depth examination of knowledge
management, encompassing the knowledge management process and its critical
success factors. Part 2 of the chapter provides an overview of culture, including its
relevance to knowledge management culture and the significance of cultural intel-
ligence [CQ ] within the realm of knowledge management.
Sections 4 and 5 focus on the practical application of knowledge management,
exemplified through the strategies employed by IBM and Unilever. Furthermore,
these sections shed light on the pivotal role played by culture and cultural intelligence
in the success of these organizations.
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From Theory of Knowledge Management to Practice
Drawing from these insights, the chapter closes by highlighting the implications
and presenting best practices for leveraging culture and cultural intelligence in the
context of knowledge management. Furthermore, the chapter is supported by a
robust reference section, ensuring interested readers can delve deeper into the subject
matter.
Conflict of interest
Author details
Leila Halawi
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, Florida, USA
© 2023 The Author(s). Licensee IntechOpen. This chapter is distributed under the terms of
the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0),
which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided
the original work is properly cited.
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Harnessing the Power of Culture and Cultural Intelligence within Knowledge Management
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.1002304
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