Preserving the integrity of knowledge and information in R&D

This article joins the research and development (R&D) and knowledge management literature to provide new insight into how to better manage the development of innovative new products and services. This process is still widely acknowledged to be problematic and inefficient. Fundamental to the new product and service development process is that new knowledge must be developed, maintained, and applied across the entire R&D commercialization spectrum. While a great deal of knowledge is often created, much is also lost as projects traverse through the numerous distinct phases of this process. The prevailing notion is that information technology systems help lessen knowledge loss, but current solutions fall short, leaving gaps or chasms in which knowledge is lost or translated in a manner that diffuses or redirects the original purpose. Through a study of 146 firms, we identify five primary areas of knowledge loss and highlight management opportunities to remedy this issue. Finally, we propose and explain a content management model for R&D as a new solution framework.