A few weeks ago, I explored the role of knowledge management in extension services, highlighting how turning raw data into actionable insights can strengthen agricultural and food systems. This post is a continuation of that research, focusing on the next step: how to operationalize knowledge management within extension networks to ensure information is not just collected but effectively shared and applied. Building on the foundation of the previous post, this research examines how well-managed knowledge systems empower extension services to deliver timely, relevant, and impactful solutions to their stakeholders. Based on a study I conducted with several amazing colleagues this research identifies key capacities for improving knowledge accessibility and outlines practical strategies to ensure effective extension services.
Key Findings
Five Core Dimensions of Knowledge Management: Our study identified five factors essential for effective knowledge management: 1 - awareness and process execution, 2 - network support, 3 - member participation, 4 - accessibility, and 5 - performance. These dimensions highlight the interconnected aspects of effective knowledge dissemination.
Network Support is Critical: Robust support systems, including organizational policies and infrastructure, significantly enhance a network’s ability to manage and share knowledge effectively.
Member Participation Drives Success: Networks with higher levels of active member involvement reported greater success in building a cohesive and impactful knowledge base.
Accessibility Challenges: Ensuring knowledge is not just available but also easily accessible remains a key hurdle for extension networks, particularly in rural or underserved areas.
Performance Impacts Perception: The practical outcomes of knowledge management—such as improved decision-making and stakeholder satisfaction—strongly influence how networks perceive their own capacity.
Practical Implications
Develop Comprehensive Support Systems: Extension networks should invest in organizational policies and technologies that facilitate effective knowledge sharing across diverse stakeholders.
Foster a Culture of Engagement: Encouraging active participation among network members strengthens collective knowledge and increases network efficacy.
Prioritize Accessibility: Develop tools and platforms that ensure knowledge is readily available and actionable for all stakeholders, regardless of geographic or technical barriers.
Regularly Evaluate Performance: Use the knowledge management scale to identify strengths and areas for improvement, ensuring networks can adapt to evolving needs and challenges.
By focusing on these strategies, extension services can focus on using knowledge management to drive change and provide exceptional services in agriculture and the food system. Effective knowledge management is more than just a process—it’s a commitment to making information accessible, actionable, and impactful. Please be sure to share your comments below. I've also included the full manuscript if you would like to read more.
Lamm, K. W., Lamm, A. J., Davis, K., Sanders, C. E., & Powell, A. (2021). Perceptions of knowledge management capacity within extension services: An exploratory factor analysis approach. Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, 29(1), 53-74. https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1984956
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