Knowledge improvisation during floods

Abstract

This study examines how Disaster Management Stakeholders disseminate knowledge during a flood based on two knowledge networks for disaster management in Ratnapura district of Sri Lanka. Interpretive case study research design and grounded theory data analysis methods were used to guide data collection and analysis. Examined through direct participant observations, study revealed five themes that explain knowledge dissemination practices among Disaster Management Stakeholders. The Micro Theory of Knowledge Improvisation (MiTKI) suggests a cycle of knowledge transfer that comprises of Knowledge Transfer Strategies and Conditions for Knowledge Transfer. The MiTKI proposes that, Improvisation in Knowledge Networks is the key enabler of knowledge transfer in the study context, which has driven disaster management activities to survive most of Knowledge Gaps and Dependencies.