Measuring knowledge exchange

In this paper, the reasons for studying knowledge exchange in the context of design are discussed, including the benefits of knowledge exchange and the contributions that design can bring in improving its implementation. The paper explores why there appears to be a lack of rigorous comparative methods. If such methods were to exist, they would allow for examination of whether certain strategies for improving knowledge exchange processes are more effective than others. A potential solution to this is proposed in the form of knowledge exchange proxies which can be developed to give an objective measurement of successful knowledge exchange, without requiring extensive longitudinal studies which might otherwise be necessary. It is speculated that measures relating to use of language and shared mental models might function as these proxies, but it is also noted that significant further work in this area is required, and more effective proxies may emerge from this.