Development and evaluation of a knowledge risk management model for project-based organizations : A multi-stage study

Mostafa Jafari

Department of Industrial Engineering,

Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Tehran, Iran

Jalal Rezaeenour

Department of Industrial Engineering,

Industrial University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran

Mohammad Mahdavi Mazdeh

Department of Industrial Engineering,

Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), Tehran, Iran, and

Atefe Hooshmandi

Department of Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Purpose – This paper seeks to develop a model for risk management of knowledge loss in a

project-based organization in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach – This study uses a multi-stage research approach. In the first

stage, existing practices are examined to develop a model for risk management of knowledge loss. In

the second stage, the model is evaluated by testing it in a case study. The methods integrated as the

foundations of the Integrated KM and RM model are: the PMBOK risk management (RM) approach,

the Fraunhofer IPK knowledge management (KM) model, and the TVA knowledge risk assessment

framework.

Findings – The analytical approach includes a six-step integrated model that manages the risk of

critical knowledge in the case study. The results show that, after a year of implementing the model, the

job positions facing knowledge loss were reduced by 88 percent.

Research limitations/implications – The integrated KM and RM model can be used to assist the

planning, establishment and evaluation of knowledge loss in projects. This helps to ensure that key

issues regarding knowledge loss are covered during the planning and implementation phases of

project management.

Originality/value – This study provides an integrated perspective of KM in project-based

organizations. It offers valuable guidelines that can help decision makers consider key issues during a

risk assessment of knowledge factors in project management. Outputs of this model can prepare an

extensive assessment report about the risk of knowledge loss in a project-based organization with

suggestions for preservation plans to mitigate its effects.

Keywords Knowledge management, Risk management, Iran, Project management,

Organizational change, Modelling

Paper type Case study