Exploring the role of knowledge management in contexts of crisis: a synthesis and way forward

Abstract

Purpose Based on the scarcity and the fragmented nature of the literature in the field of knowledge management (KM) and crisis, this paper aims to present a systematic literature review of these two constructs, interlinking the literature in KM to the prevention, preparedness, response and recovery (PPRR) phases framework. The output is a critical discussion on the state of the literature in the field, and an overview of avenues for future research. Design/methodology/approach The methodology adopted in this paper is that of a systematic literature review. Using the Scopus database, this study presents the findings that emerged from 59 publications in the field of KM and crisis. Findings Through the application of a systematic literature review, this paper categorizes 59 publications on KM according to the different stages comprising a crisis. The implications of each paper are discussed and critically analyzed, acting as the basis of areas for future research. Originality/value This paper is the first to offer a systematic review of the literature on KM in contexts of crisis by integrating the literature into a well-defined PPRR framework. Furthermore, the discussions presented in this review may be used by practitioners as a basis/starting point to identify relevant literature on different phases of crisis, while scholars may use this paper to further develop studies in KM and crisis management.

The application of knowledge management in disaster management: past, present and future trends

“…Future disasters are expected to occur with higher frequency and greater magnitude for many reasons, such as climate change and overpopulation. Anand et al (2022) present a network of KM studies on the framework of PPRR. The model focuses on the planning and training processes to prevent crisis, allowing the organization to source relevant data, information and knowledge to perform critical evaluation and develop communication structure during disasters.…”

“…A study by Dorasamy et al (2013) provided a two-decade review of KM in managing disasters and emergency events. In recent work, Anand et al (2022) presented a systematic literature review based on 59 publications concerning different disaster stages defined within the prevention, preparedness, response and recovery (PPRR). This study would supplement Anand’s work by providing knowledge mapping in the subject area with a quantitative approach through a bibliometric analysis.…”

“…Enhancing KM would eventually reduce the risk of losing the massive loss of lives and properties due to a disaster. Drawing from Anand et al (2022), it was suggested that to capture a greater reach in understanding KM, a bibliometric approach is needed to supplement the KM in disaster management literature. By methodically identifying the most active and significant articles and journals on the subject, exposing collaborative networks and clusters of contribution to existing literature, the bibliometric technique can supplement current review efforts and enhance knowledge in the field (Casprini et al , 2020).…”

Zarządzanie wiedzą w zarządzaniu kryzysowym w sektorze publicznym

“…Wynikało to z korzyści, jakie można odnieść dzięki zarządzaniu wiedzą, do których zalicza się wzrost innowacyjności, rozwój zarządzania relacjami, łatwiejsze osiąganie celów strategicznych itd. (Anand i in., 2022). Jednakże w zarządzaniu publicznym, a w tym w zarządzaniu kryzysowym, ten obszar badań jest stosunkowo słabo rozwinięty (Anand i in.…”

“…(Anand i in., 2022). Jednakże w zarządzaniu publicznym, a w tym w zarządzaniu kryzysowym, ten obszar badań jest stosunkowo słabo rozwinięty (Anand i in. 2022;Massaro i in.…”