Knowledge Management Techniques In Experimental Projects

Knowledge integration (KI) and knowledge management (KM) techniques are being recognized as key to i mproved competitiveness in industry. These principles and techniques enable retention, sharing and systematic application of critical knowledge across geographic and temporal expanses. Five case studies of the application of KI/KM techniques are described in the context of a university research group including students at all levels from sophomores to Ph D candidates. Each case was a major research experiment involving new measurement techniques, which had to be conducted during a specific time in a p rofessional testing environment. To avoid missing many classes, each student could only participate for two days at most, so that each team member had to be well-informed. The processes used to develop each experiment, train the team and conduct the project are discussed in the paper. KI techniques included develo pment of a Live Test Document, internet-based exchange of experimental details with the customers, mission planning using the internet, and training of the team using scaled mockups of the experimental configurations.