Reflecting distributed knowledge in IT systems: a three layers concept

Critics of present IT support systems reveal a lack of adequate comprehension of the application domain and its components and features at the systemic level. In particular, the distribution of knowledge, its change over time, and its redistribution induced by tools as a key factor have been under-rated up to now. So, after discussing IT support system deficiencies, we continue with a holistic view on, and a concept for, distributed knowledge, especially for information- and knowledge-rich organisations. The three layers of the concept comprise: knowledge types; the interaction between knowledge stakeholders; and knowledge representation. From there, we proceed to the acquisition of distributed knowledge and to issues on how to manage it.