EXAMINING KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT IN THE ERA OF THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70301/Keywords:
Knowledge Management (KM), Industry Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Human–Machine Collaboration, FEED Model (Feedback, Ethics, Enticement, Data)Abstract
This study investigates how knowledge management (KM) is evolving during the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0). Emphasis is placed on the interaction between human expertise and machine intelligence, with particular attention to how knowledge can be managed in a reciprocal manner between humans and machines. Qualitative research design was utilised, guided by an interpretivist approach, to capture various experiences from twelve professionals across academia, corporate, and research institutions. Semi-structured interviews provided rich, practical insights which were analysed using thematic analysis in ATLAS.ti software. There are four themes generated by this analysis: (1) the definitions and foundations of KM, (2) organisational enablers for effective KM, (3) knowledge continuity, and (4) the reciprocal KM relationship between human and machine. Automation and artificial intelligence can enhance efficiency and productivity, while tacit knowledge, creativity, and ethical oversight remain mainly human domains. The study introduces the FEED model (Feedback, Ethics, Enticement, and Data) as a framework for human–machine collaboration. The paper concludes that effective KM in IR 4.0 requires balance between humans and machines, where machines should complement rather than replace human judgment. The recommendations emphasise ethical governance, importance of training, data quality, and the continuous adaptation of KM during technology advancement.
References
The study has appendices with supporting materials, and other related documentation to the research process. Appendices also include anonymised demographic details of the twelve interviewees and the detailed thematic analysis processes along with the progress through the study. The study has a wide range for references and sources. A short list is included below as a glimpse of the full list (57 references) in the original dissertation.
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