Knowledge and IS implementation: case studies in physical asset management

Information systems (IS) may be seen as a repository for knowledge. The challenge to practitioners is to use such technological developments as the basis for new working practices that lead to competitive success and growth. Knowledge, as a factor of production, is increasingly recognised for its relatively untapped contribution to more effective performance. IS developments and implementation are evaluated with great difficulty. The study looks to a new method of evaluating the effects of knowledge acquisition in physical asset management: through the benefits achieved from a maintenance management information system (MMIS). The experiences of four case organizations that had recently introduced an MMIS are studied. The knowledge acquired was categorised according to a structure by Bohn, and the benefits which accrued from the MMIS were classified using a benefits ladder developed by Farbey et al. The study suggests that where greater levels of knowledge resulted from the MMIS, higher level benefits were achieved.