Knowledge Pump: Supporting the Flow and Use of Knowledge

This chapter proposes an information technology system called the Knowledge Pump for connecting and supporting electronic repositories and networked communities that can foster an environment that encourages the flow, use, and creation of knowledge.

Abstract

This chapter proposes an information technology system we call the Knowledge Pump for connecting and supporting electronic repositories and networked communities. Our objectives are two fold. The first is to facilitate getting the right information to the right people in a timely fashion. The second is to map community networks and repository content. These goals are complementary because the community and repository maps help channel the flow of information while the patterns inferred from information flow help refine the maps. By supporting these two elements of distribution and mapping, the Knowledge Pump can foster an environment that encourages the flow, use, and creation of knowledge.