The research, methodology and recommendations were completed by Tracy Runfola Tressler and Melissa Walker as part of a Catholic University LSC 555 team project with guidance from Nerida Hart, Chair of KM, and Karen Huffman, Chair-elect of KM.
Introduction
The Special Libraries Association Knowledge Management (SLA KM) Division asked us to help them learn more about Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and how it may be included in division activities as they continue to build a more global communication network with their over 500 members throughout the world. They hope to expand this global communication network so that they are not constrained by time zones, distance and economic issues.
With the goal of expanding their communication network in mind, the division asked that we define VoIP and explore the benefits of its use. They also asked us to research which countries have adopted the use of VoIP as well as countries that prohibit the use of VoIP due to security issues.
In addition to the VoIP research, we analyzed the KM technology plan to learn how they are currently communicating with their members. We also reviewed their mission, vision and goals to identify how we could enhance their current efforts to engage members in networking and sharing of best practices. We focused our project around their division goal four which states, "Foster the growth of Knowledge Management by promoting the development of Interest Groups for specific KM areas and by encouraging the sharing of ideas via a Communities of Practice forum.
In order to determine KM division member familiarity and preference with particular communication methods, a survey was developed to find out which methods the members rely on most, their preferences for use of particular methods in a business environment, and their thoughts about the current methods being used by KM. A solid understanding of what the members are aware of and familiar with in terms of division communication will be important to this project.
With the survey results and our research of VoIP, we created recommendations for increasing communication within the current division technology plan.
Quick links
- Survey results and recommendations (WORD)
- Presentation given to LSC 555 class (PPT)
- Website developed for project
Additional comments?
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