Learning Ahead of Crisis. A Study of Preparedness in the Arctic

Abstract

The background for this thesis stems from the limited research into; and the challenges associated with development of preparedness in the Arctic. The main thesis question to answer is “How could social relations and cultivation of tacit knowledge improve preparedness in the Arctic?”. The thesis question is derived from the literature review and initial results of the pre-study of this thesis. The theoretical framework for this thesis is springs out of acknowledged literature within the fields of preparedness and organizational learning. The literature chapter starts with discussing the current state of the fields, including ongoing debates, different perspectives and approaches. Following up with a presentation of Communities of Practice as a concept for building social relations through shared experience and common goals, before presenting an approach to management of tacit knowledge. Concluding with a condensation of the literature discussion resulting in the analytical approach for this thesis. The thesis is performed as a qualitative case-study and sources its data from semi-structured interviews and participatory observation. The empirical findings are presented and analyzed thematically in relation to the underlying research questions. The findings suggest that preparedness organizations learn through both individuals, within the organization and that learning can be achieved between organizations as well. Other findings suggest that social relations and arenas like one could cultivate through Communities of practice, can be a potent asset for cultivation, harnessing, development and sharing of tacit knowledge. Through conscious management of tacit knowledge findings suggest that preparedness could be improved and developed even further. In conclusion social relations and arenas can contribute to development of tacit knowledge, which in turn, through proper management can be deployed back to new and existing individuals within an organization. Through these processes the inherent preparedness can develop even further and be better suited to meet the complex challenges of tomorrow.