KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT IN IOT ECOSYSTEMS: HOW TO GENERATE INTELLIGENCE AND CONNECTIVITY

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem brings a new perspective beyond the technology's discussions towards the creation of intelligence in an interconnected world. In this context, the main challenge is to create an environment capable of responding to the users and organizations in real-time. Thus, this research aims to develop a model to explore the relationship between IoT and KM to generate intelligence and connectivity in IoT smart ecosystem. The research design was divided into four phases. In the first, we conducted an exploratory and preliminary search based on 140 articles to understand the object of study. After this phase, we reached 92 articles from a Systematic Literature Review. As a result of these two phases, we mapped the IoT elements, including connectivity and intelligence, as well, we evidenced that IoT technologies can support KM, which we call KM enablers. Therefore, we found a lack of studies related to KM supporting IoT ecosystems. Thus, in the third phase, we proposed a model based on the intersection of the IoT ecosystem and KM literature. This model was composed of KM processes, KM enablers, IoT ecosystem, connectivity, and intelligence. In the fourth phase, we reviewed the model based on data collection and the in-depth interview method with 12 interviewees who have worked with IoT projects. After the analysis, as findings, we confirmed the data-centric or user-centric perspectives of the IoT ecosystems, the IoT elements, and the potential support of the KM process to enable the IoT ecosystem implementations. Consequently, this study contributed with two new visions, which we call "Intelligence-Oriented" and "Value Add-Oriented". Besides, the importance of the use of KM processes, mainly the Knowledge Integration process and the role of a solution integrator for an IoT ecosystem more intelligent and connected. This integration brings the vital role of the project managers to cope with the complexity of this kind of project due to the need to manage the Knowledge to accomplish the project deliverables with internal and external stakeholders. Thus, in the IoT ecosystem, it is crucial to understand the business context, to have the know-how of the technologies, and know-how to integrate them and manage all the stakeholders.