Knowledge clusters: Dealing with a multilevel phenomenon

Abstract

The central idea of this paper is to comprehend knowledge integration in inter-organizational IS projects through a knowledge cluster view of inter-organizational IS projects. The proliferation of such projects combined with the complexity of managing them, motivated this study. The study is based on a single case study which involves four organizations collaborating on a project. Findings suggest that knowledge integration in inter-organizational projects occurs through knowledge clusters and involves the interaction of complementary specialized knowledge bases within a structure and influenced by the clusters' perceptions towards the project. Implications of the findings and future research opportunities are discussed.