Understanding a special operations role: network caretakers of Knowledge-Based Communities of Practice
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Authors
Robey, John W.
Webber, Paul M.
Subjects
Army Design Methodology
big data
communities of practice
design
knowledge management
knowledge
learning
Libya
organizational design
SOCAFRICA
Special Operations
strategic arena
big data
communities of practice
design
knowledge management
knowledge
learning
Libya
organizational design
SOCAFRICA
Special Operations
strategic arena
Advisors
Hammond, Jesse
Date of Issue
2017-12
Date
Dec-17
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The success of special operations often depends upon building and sustaining relationships with partners. Because of the unconventional environment in which we operate, relationships can also be non-standard, including academics, reporters, and private industry. By creating a community of practice, individuals in special operations may be able to connect groups of subject-matter experts who share a deep interest in a particular activity and, through regular interaction with special operations, learn how to engage more effectively in this activity. The work of this thesis is two-fold: building a Knowledge-Based Community of Practice and applying this design method to the authors' case study of Libya. This research offers a partial solution by bolstering a deeper environmental understanding through the creation of such a Knowledge-Based Community of Practice, consisting of a spectrum of individuals with differing perspectives, to engage in iterated structured dialogues. The structure, design, and life cycle of a community of practice, as well as the types and frequencies of interactions and implications of the post-information age are explored. The design methods are rooted in Army doctrine as a method of structuring interactions and distilling information to local planners. Big data sets are implemented to back-stop information from structured sessions. In short, the authors reflect on the establishment and sustainment of a community of practice to better connect with subject-matter experts who care to bring to bear a more complete understanding of an operational environment prior to, during, or in order to avoid altogether the application of military force.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Defense Analysis (DA)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
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Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.