A Developmental Research Approach to Knowledge Management Model Implementation in Buddhist Sangha Administrative Communities: Evidence from Northeastern Thailand's Temple of Public Peace and Prosperity Project
Keywords:
Knowledge management, Buddhist Sangha, developmental research, community development, Thailand, religious organizations, social innovationAbstract
Background: Knowledge management (KM) systems in religious organizations remain underexplored despite their potential for community development. Buddhist Sangha communities in Thailand possess extensive tacit and explicit knowledge that could enhance social welfare initiatives through systematic management approaches.
Purpose: This developmental research aimed to create, implement, and evaluate a culturally-adapted knowledge management model for Buddhist Sangha communities participating in the "Temple of Public Peace and Prosperity" project across Roi Et, Yasothon, and Amnat Charoen provinces in northeastern Thailand.
Methods: A developmental research methodology was employed over 18 months (2021-2022) with mixed-methods data collection. The quantitative phase involved 864 participants (monks, laypersons, and community leaders) completing structured questionnaires. The qualitative phase included 45 in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The study developed and tested the Knowledge Mission, Sharing, Reflect, and Utilization (KMSRU) model through iterative cycles of design, implementation, and evaluation.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in knowledge sharing effectiveness (t = 12.47, p < 0.001), collaborative engagement (F = 23.89, p < 0.001), and community development outcomes (χ² = 187.34, p < 0.001) following KMSRU implementation. The model demonstrated 78.6% adoption rate across participating temples, with sustained usage over 12 months. Qualitative findings identified cultural sensitivity, resource allocation, and continuous training as critical success factors.
Conclusions: The KMSRU model successfully enhanced knowledge management practices in Buddhist Sangha communities while respecting traditional values. The developmental approach proved effective for creating contextually-appropriate KM systems in religious organizations, providing a replicable framework for similar community-based initiatives.
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