Mobilizing knowledge collaboration: Today's reality vs. future possibility

Mobile information technology (IT) refers to wireless communication networks, mobile application services, and portable access devices that are changing how individuals in their work and social lives connect and coordinate “on the move.” But does mobile IT support knowledge collaboration “on the move”? Knowledge collaboration entails more than exchanging information and coordinating action. Knowledge collaboration requires interactive interpretation in a context to generate novel and useful ideas that are helpful in achieving a common goal or solving a collective problem. Today’s organizational problems and knowledge opportunities are far too complex and multifaceted for a single individual alone to make sense and respond; collaborative efforts are a necessity.

In our review of the literature, we find little evidence of mobile knowledge collaboration. However, new social relationships appear to be developing, and existing ones are reinforced, as individuals connect, coordinate, and share in mobile environments. Mobile knowledge collaboration offers promise for the future.