Theoretical principles for knowledge management system design: Application to pediatric bipolar disorder

Knowledge management systems (KMS) are systems designed to support organizational knowledge processes. Knowledge-oriented theories of the firm are emerging, as theories of KMS design continue to evolve. This paper adopts Habermas' theory of communicative action and discourse ethics, and Churchman's Singerian inquiring system as kernel theories on which to base KMS design principles. Specifically, we build on Churchman's nine requirements for an object to constitute a system and his Singerian inquiring system, and Habermas' critical theory to develop the notion of Churchmanian–Habermasian knowledge management systems (CHKMS) and principles for their design. We define a CHKMS as a purposeful, ethical and adaptable system that creates exoteric knowledge (relevant for solving social and managerial problems) through communicative action, providing a link between knowledge and action in an organization or community of practice. The design principles involve a strong emphasis on ethical behavior, the development of success measures for CHKMS, the need to ensure that the CHKMS enhances the dignity of humankind, a highly participatory design process, the desire to unify the designers, the decision makers and clients, the need to shape CHKMS components in relation to the system as a whole, and the need for a ‘guarantor’ to validate knowledge through discursive communication and the ‘cashing in’ of validity claims. The principles are illustrated by applying them to management of knowledge concerning pediatric bipolar disorder. The implications of the design theory for KMS research are discussed.