Knowledge-Hoarding

In this age of knowledge, is it possible that people in organizations "hoard" knowledge? Yes indeed it is true.

It's also true that people are reluctant to share knowledge between and among organizations belonging to the same network. This is a problem in economic development. It inhibits regional collaboration for economic development. Think about it.

Despite the many initiatives launched to decrease information-overload, increase teamwork, and facilitate knowledge-sharing, many organizations still find themselves stymied by cultures where knowledge-hoarding and "each man out for himself" behaviors flourish.

While some of the programs designed to help turn out to be more costly than valuable, it's also true that hoarding, failing to share credit, and the lack of skillful communication and true teamwork also have high costs. What's a leader to do?

You might want to start by reading Jamie S. Walters' excellent article on this subject.