Management of knowledge-intensive organisations : what do we know after 20 years of research?

During the past 20 years a vast amount of academic work has been done in the area of managing knowledge-intensive organisations. Due to the large volume and dispersed nature of prior research it is difficult to gain a holistic view on what is actually known about this issue. This study synthesises the discussion on the management of knowledge-intensive organisations. A literature review was conducted to cover two research questions: first, what are the key characteristics of knowledge-intensive organisations and knowledge work, and second, what are the main managerial issues that originate from the nature of knowledge-intensive organisations? The review makes a contribution by forming a comprehensive view of the key issues involved in managing knowledge-intensive organisations. As its pragmatic outcome the paper provides a managerial checklist that helps to recognise some of the key aspects that are relevant in managing knowledge-intensive organisations.