To improve our understanding of the impact of organizational learning and knowledge on competitive advantage, we propose a framework that includes the constructs of data, information, knowledge, and wisdom. Each of these constructs is then associated with a different type of learning. We further argue that wisdom is an important, albeit missing, construct in the knowledge‐based theory of the firm. A key to organizational wisdom is judgement and decision making, which requires an understanding of the complexity of a situation, but also requires the ability to make sense and simplify so that action can be taken. Three important drivers for the development of organizational wisdom are experience, a passion to learn, and spirituality. Processes for acquiring organizational wisdom such as transformational leadership, organizational culture and knowledge transfer are also discussed.
Article navigation
1 December 2000
Conceptual Paper|
December 01 2000
Organizational learning, knowledge and wisdom Available to Purchase
Paul E. Bierly, III;
Paul E. Bierly, III
James Madison University, Virginia, USA
Search for other works by this author on:
Eric H. Kessler;
Eric H. Kessler
Pace University, New York, USA, and
Search for other works by this author on:
Edward W. Christensen
Edward W. Christensen
Monmouth University, West of Long Branch, New Jersey, USA
Search for other works by this author on:
Publisher: Emerald Publishing
Online ISSN: 1758-7816
Print ISSN: 0953-4814
© MCB UP Limited
2000
Journal of Organizational Change Management (2000) 13 (6): 595–618.
Citation
Bierly PE, Kessler EH, Christensen EW (2000), "Organizational learning, knowledge and wisdom". Journal of Organizational Change Management, Vol. 13 No. 6 pp. 595–618, doi: https://doi.org/10.1108/09534810010378605
Download citation file:
Suggested Reading
Managing intranets to encourage knowledge sharing: opportunities and constraints
Online Information Review (February,2001)
An enterprise‐wide knowledge management system infrastructure
Industrial Management & Data Systems (February,2002)
Knowledge Management Toolkit
The Electronic Library (June,2001)
SMARTVision: a knowledge‐management methodology
Journal of Knowledge Management (December,2001)
Related Chapters
Organizational Learning and International Management: The Contributions of Marjorie A. Lyles
Global Entrepreneurship: Past, Present & Future
Organizational Learning and Firm Profitability: The Role of Competitive Advantage
Advances in Accounting Behavioral Research
Recommended for you
These recommendations are informed by your reading behaviors and indicated interests.
