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MPhil in Engineering for Sustainable Development

global challenges, engineering solutions
 

Knowledge Management as a mechanism to embed Sustainable Development

Jason Harriman

Knowledge Management as a mechanism to embed Sustainable Development

This research investigates the role of knowledge management as a mechanism to embed sustainable development best practices within an organization.  It explores how addressing the complex concept of sustainable development requires the application of knowledge and skills from a wide range of disciplines and many different types of organizations.  It also explores how knowledge management can act as a stimulus to change within and between organizations, by acting as a learning tool through the dissemination of best practices and as a planning tool by identifying strengths and weaknesses in the existing knowledge base.  Through a case study analysis of a large multi-disciplinary consultancy, it identifies existing gaps in knowledge and action, and then demonstrates that more effective knowledge management in fundamental to the production of sustainable solutions.  Finally, the dissertation presents a strategy for managing knowledge of sustainability, suggesting the measures and organization should implement as it moves towards meeting the objectives of sustainable development.
Subject: 

Course Overview

Context

The need to engage in better problem definition through careful dialogue with all stakeholder groups and a proper recognition of context.

Perspectives

An ability to work with specialists from other disciplines and professional groups acknowledging that technical innovation and business skills also must be understood, nurtured and combined as precursors to the successful implementation of sustainable solutions.

Change

An understanding of mechanisms for managing change in organisations so future engineers are equipped to play a leadership role.

Tools

An awareness of a range of assessment frameworks, sustainability metrics and methodologies such as Life Cycle Analysis, Systems Dynamics, Multi-Criteria Decision making and Impact Assessment.