Co-operative work practices and knowledge sharing issues: a comparison of viewpoints

Abstract

In this paper, we set out to explore the organisational knowledge that evolves from virtual co-operative work experiences. Through case narratives we demonstrate issues that can arise and using the four theoretical viewpoints of sociotechnology, knowledge management, organisational communication theory, and Computer Supported Collaborative Work (CSCW) we develop practical insights into the organisational complexity of computer-supported and virtual teamwork. This complexity, we argue, requires a novel combination of work design factors including participation-related design and computer-supported tools. The outcome is improved communication and a fuller application of organisational knowledge that enhances the design and operation of co-operative work.