Knowledge broker innovation in management consulting

Sirin Akaraphan, Graduate School

Abstract

This dissertation explores the elaborate roles and components of Knowledge Brokers (KBs) within the management consulting context, a sector strongly dependent on intensive use of knowledge yet underexplored in terms of KBs. The research has two primary objectives: firstly, it aims to identify the components of KBs that enable the knowledge brokerage process within management consulting context; secondly, it targets to develop a prototype for a knowledge broker innovation. Employing a robust mixed-methods approach, including Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and data collection from eight global regions, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of KBs, highlighting the importance of Interpersonal Skills and Cognitive Ability as the key components of knowledge brokers. The New Service Development (NSD) section incorporates a structured approach for creating KB innovation platform, Veritas Insights, following Cooper (1990)'s stage gate process from idea generation to market launch. It includes extensive market and competitive analyses and prototype development to ensure Veritas Insights of its value creation. Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by Davis (1989) was also applied to test the acceptance of Veritas Insights with its potential users. The commercialization plan discusses critical analyses and plans to launch and scale Veritas Insights such as market & opportunity, sales & marketing, management & operations, capital & financial planning and governance model. It highlights a significant business opportunity for Veritas Insights with a 12-77% Internal Rate of Return (IRR) and a 2-4 years of payback period. In conclusion, the dissertation achieves significant theoretical and practical contributions. Academically, it explores KBs in the strategic management consulting context using a robust mixed methods approach and global perspectives. Practically, it develops a prototype for a knowledge broker innovation with the potential to transform the industry. It shows how integrating KBs into decision-making can significantly enhance organizational innovation. Finally, this dissertation contributes to both the Knowledge Broker (KB) and Knowledge Management (KM) domains, setting a foundation for future research on KB and KM in other contexts.