Collective Intelligence

'Collective Intelligence can be defined as the knowledge that is derived from the participation or teamwork of many individuals working together.'  (Czernicki, 2009)

We are entering the Knowledge Age, and within its realm exists the 'knowledge space.' (Levy, 1997)

This includes knowledge management. As a systems analyst in the twenty first century (one of my future pathways), the use of employee networks to harness collective intelligence will enable me to introduce a more effective level of decision making into corporate culture.

Levy, in his book 'Collective Intelligence' says that ' the prosperity of a nation, geographical region, business or individual depends on their ability to navigate the knowledge space.' (Levy, 1997) He also uses the term 'innovation network.'

For a systems analyst, the implementation of an innovation network within an organizational culture will heighten the potential for that organization to achieve success. Introducing a social intranet as a way of communicating within an organization will be a highly effective to improve communication and promote innovative ideas.

A systems analyst is employed by a company to improve its IT system. Before implementing the final solution, it is important to consult with the end-user. They are the ones who will be using the system on a daily basis, and so their feedback is crucial. By implementing an end-user feedback network (where the employees are able to view other employee comments about the history of the system and potential benefits and hazards that they are able to predict) the employees are directly involved in the process of change.

After discovering the different needs of the people within the organization, rather than give the usual recommendations, the systems analyst should then introduce a software system that incorporates the power of collective intelligence (in the form of a social networking program engineered to integrate with the company). Used in this way, it becomes a collaborative intelligence that drives the organization. Collaboration is the key to success.

The main benefit of this system is that the user is involved. In a network situation, users can view the input of other users and gauge the usefulness of their own inputs. This would be far more satisfying than merely generating a report which is then viewed by a superior. Participation and interaction will lead the users towards generating superior data. The lengthy process of finding old files and emails would no longer necessary, as this could be achieved with a simple search using the new intranet software.

Bart Czernicki simplifies this process into two categories:

Collecting User-Generated Data, and

Displaying User-Generated Data

(Czernicki, 2009)

A little like a blog, I suppose, or a Facebook account.

One interesting method employed in software that uses collective intelligence is a ratings system (not unlike the ‘like’ button) where you can rate the input of other users according to their useful, productive and innovative qualities.

The systems analyst (moi) can use an exciting approach to introduce change to the organization. The team needs to realize that it will be transforming into a virtual team. The new innovative network will have a human focus, problem solving will be enhanced, time to complete projects will be reduced and as a result, costs will be reduced.

An effective leader within this environment would need to possess emotional intelligence.

Emotional intelligence, collective intelligence and collaboration will lead these virtual employees (without them even knowing it) towards the highest of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, that of self-actualization, and everyone will benefit.

The systems analyst who is able to alter the culture of an organization so that it adopts these methods will be creating the knowledge workers of the future.

‘The more we are able to form intelligent communities, as open-minded cognitive subjects capable of initiative, imaginative, and rapid response, the more we will be able to ensure our success in a highly competitive environment.’ (Levy, 1997)

This new digital world is much the same as the old in that a little creativity goes a long way.

Czernicki, B. (2009). Next-Generation Business Intelligence Software with Silverlight 3. New York: Apress.

Levy, P. (1997). Collective Intelligence. Cambridge: Perseus Books.

Nemiro, J., Beyerlein, M., Bradley, L., & Beyerlein, S. (2008). The Handbook of High Performance Virtual Teams: A Toolkit for Collaborating across Boundaries. San Fransisco: Jossey-Bass.

Tactic 8 - Use Collective Intelligence. (n.d.). Retrieved February 28, 2011, from Vimeo: http://vimeo.com/9270471

                                                              

                                                          Using Collective Intelligence