New framework on agricultural knowledge management for innovation recognized with Cook Medal

LOS BAÑOS, Philippines (09 December 2024) ~ The agricultural sector faces the dual challenge of feeding a growing global population and adapting to environmental changes while ensuring sustainability. Knowledge is a cornerstone for driving innovation in agriculture, yet existing knowledge management (KM) frameworks often fall short in addressing the complexity and dynamism of agrifood systems.

A novel and comprehensive KM framework, called Agricultural Knowledge Management for Innovation (AKM4I) , has been conceptualized to overcome these limitations and enhance innovation processes in agricultural systems. Developed by scientists from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), Jahn Research Group, and International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the paper was recently recognized with the 2024 Cook Medal , an award given by the Operational Research Society for outstanding contributions to the philosophy, theory, or practice of Knowledge Management.

Innovation through engagement and equity

Published in Knowledge Management Research & Practice (Volume 21), and authored by Andrea Gardeazabal, Tobias Lunt, Molly M. Jahn, Nele Verhulst, Jon Hellin, and Bram Govaerts, the innovative framework focuses on the systemic interactions within Agricultural Innovation System constituents and emphasizes the critical role of stakeholder input and engagement, as well as a more equitable approach to knowledge generation, adaptation, and adoption.

Agrifood systems are intricate, adaptive networks influenced by diverse factors, including climatic conditions, socio-economic dynamics, and ecological interdependencies. Traditional KM frameworks for agriculture have relied on linear, top-down approaches to knowledge transfer, which often fail to address the nuanced realities of these systems. They also frequently overlook critical factors such as power dynamics, trust, and local knowledge integration, hindering equitable and effective innovation.

The AKM4I framework addresses these challenges by fostering collaboration and integrating explicit, implicit, and tacit knowledge across diverse stakeholders. It emphasizes systemic knowledge flows,…