1. ¹Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, U.K.
2. ²Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, U.K.

Correspondence: K. Ruikar, Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, U.K. Tel: +44 (0) 1509 223 774; Fax: +44 (0) 1509 223 981; E-mail: k.d.ruikar@lboro.ac.uk

Received 29 September 2006; Accepted 7 August 2007.

Abstract

The last two decades have witnessed a significant increase in discussions about the different dimensions of knowledge and knowledge management (KM). This is especially true in the construction context. Many factors have contributed to this growing interest including globalisation, increased competition, diffusion of new ICTs (information and communication technologies) and new procurement routes, among others. There are a range of techniques and technologies that can be used for KM in construction organisations. The use of techniques for KM is not new, but many technologies for KM are fairly new and still evolving. This paper begins with a review of different KM techniques and technologies and then reports the findings of case studies of selected U.K. construction organisations, carried out with the aim of establishing what tools are currently being used in U.K. construction organisations to support knowledge processes. Case study findings indicate that most organisations do not adopt a structured approach for selecting KM technologies and techniques. The use of KM techniques is more evident compared to KM technologies. There is also reluctance among construction companies to invest in highly specialised KM technologies. The high costs of specialist KM technologies are viewed as the barrier to their adoption. In conclusion, the paper advocates integrated use of KM techniques and technologies in construction organisations.