Knowledge claim evaluation: a fundamental issue for knowledge management

Purpose – This paper aims to present a classification of approaches toward knowledge claim evaluation (KCE), which is the process of evaluating and testing knowledge claims in organizations, and to position KCE as a fundamental research issue for KM. Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws from a range of KM theories in the academic literature and reviews the role of KCE. Concepts and principles from epistemology provide the basis for the analysis and classification of KCE approaches. The paper's particular focus is on KCE in innovation. Furthermore, practical examples illustrate the working of KCE. Findings – KCE is a neglected process in KM theories. The conceptual underpinnings of KCE in KM theories are insufficient and empirical studies are lacking. The paper identifies three approaches towards KCE from the literature. The proposed classification shows that KCE can be dealt with in various ways, and that an understanding concerning the practical workings, the contextual factors and effects of KCE can yield fruitful advances in KM theory and organizational practice. Research limitations/implications – The literature review is based on a pre‐defined choice of KM theories in KM literature, whereas alternative selection criteria may be possible. Originality/value – KCE is a topic that is under‐exposed in the KM literature. The authors show that multiple approaches toward KCE can be identified and that KCE can be very relevant for organizations and KM theory and practice.