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CWS: Benefits (permalink)
last edited by Carmela Williams on Monday, 02/18/2008 8:59 PM

KM:  Collaborative Work Systems ("CWS")


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CWS

Goal of CWS

Types of CWS

Critical Success Factors

Strategy for CWS

Technology and Techniques

Benefits

ROI


Lessons Learned

Resources

Benefits

The benefits of CWS may lead to greater efficiency, the ability to solve problems faster, members take ownership for their work, increased knowledge and creativity, improved competitive advantage, improved and/or more effective business processes, greater productivity and commitment among team members, less direct supervision, higher employee retention and may also lead to "reduced costs, increased revenue, increased profitability and the achievement of your other business objectives" (Rusanow, 2003).

Besides obtaining increased knowledge, efficiencies and profits, there are other benefits of using a CWS. There is an universal, as in holistic, benefit too (for example, it provides a venue to create a positive impression and the influence of others).  If there are apprehensions creating varying levels of commitment or speculation regarding the overall effort, CWS can provide the opportunity to address concerns (i.e. fears) and clarify any ambiguities.

Furthermore, it allows for an opportunity to learn how the intended goal will affect others within the group. Although everyone on the team has the same goal in mind, the reasons for obtaining the goal can be different. CWS can provide an opportunity to develop an understanding of the reasons as well as the impact of obtaining the goal on other team members beyond ones own.

Equally, it can help team members obtain a mutual respect of fellow team members' work efforts. Sometimes there is a familiarization with another person’s job task, but there is not an intricate understanding of the process to perform those tasks. CWS can create a learning environment that helps fellow team members develop an understanding and appreciation for other team members.  Also it allows for self-expression and development of pride. It can be an avenue where participants express suppressed ideas and take pride in their contributions especially if the intended goal is reached and the results are successful.

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