Knowledge and information sharing in a closed information environment

Purpose – The objectives of this research are to ascertain the current status of, and barriers to, knowledge and information sharing; to elicit suggestions for improvement; and to determine whether the situation is different from that experienced by organizations operating in an average business environment. Design/methodology/approach – The approach adopted was a survey conducted within the New Zealand Defence Force, for the purpose of obtaining a deeper understanding. Findings – It was found that much similarity existed between the two types of organizations except that the organization operating in a closed information environment presented as an extreme example of an average organization. In particular, the requirement to maintain high security yet encourage the free flow of knowledge and information presents a considerable challenge. Originality/value – The paper presents some insights into an area about which very little is known and which is, by its nature, difficult to research. It shows how closed information environment organizations could provide insights and examples for those operating in the average business environment. When consequences are more critical, practice will become more finely honed.