The knowledge continuum ‐ organizing for research and scholarly communication

The Office of Information Services (OIS) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is undergoing a major organizational transition to function as a cohesive unit under the concept of the knowledge continuum. The concept is based on the premise that the processes which contribute to the creation of new knowledge in the research environment form part of a continuum which has no beginning and no end. Thus, it concludes that the knowledge continuum is best served by an organizational structure which extends its contribution and role in the scholarly process of research to produce and disseminate results which benefit scholarly communication. The knowledge continuum assesses the various elements that contribute to scholarly communication and seeks to provide a continuum of support services whereby the identification, absorption, utilization, and manipulation of existing knowledge merge with the organization, creation, and dissemination of new knowledge. This case study analyzes the application of the concept of the knowledge continuum, through the use of Internet technology, and the resulting organizational implications and conclusions.