For most organizations, the knowledge of its employees is its most valuable asset. Since most of that knowledge is never captured and stored, however, that valuable asset disappears the moment someone leaves. Or, as is most often the case, organizations face the dilemma of conveying a seasoned employee's knowledge to newer, less experienced employees.

The challenge is daunting to say the least.

Ariel's Solution

Over the years, Ariel has developed and utilized methods for enabling the capture and transferal of knowledge objects.

Knowledge and information is not something that one can easily put in a folder and retrieve for later use. The reality is that knowledge architectures are highly complex. Ariel's approach to knowledge base design are based on its tested and proven methodologies as well as industry best practices.

At the most basic level, Ariel incorporates knowledge into the interface design of the systems it designs. This unique way of placing knowledge in the hands of end users allows systems to be more intuitive and performance-focused. For example, the best practices for an employee responsible for sales could be depicted in an interface outlining the dos and don'ts of selling. When a potential selling pitfall is identified, the best practice contained within the user interface conveys an appropriate warning.

While such an approach sounds simple and obvious, the actual analysis, design, prototyping and testing is complex. With dozens of years experience, however, Ariel makes this happen right away.

The second approach to knowledge base design is in the more mainstream view of knowledge management. Through its analysis work, Ariel helps organizations identify its knowledge assets and works with them to architect knowledge repositories. It is not uncommon for Ariel's consultants to uncover information, best practices, knowledge and other assets its clients never knew existed.

Once these assets are captured and stored, the critical success measure becomes meaningful retrieval. We place great emphasis on the qualifier "meaningful." Quality versus quantity. Ariel's unique approach ensures that when information is sought, the right asset, in the right amount is delivered at the right time.

Ariel uses a variety of processes, tools and technologies to achieve its success in knowledge base design. Like fingerprints and snowflakes, not two solutions are exactly alike. Each engagement brings with it its unique conditions and parameters. In short, Ariel provides tailored solutions to each if its clients.

Companies such as Fidelity Investments, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Primerica Financial Services and other leaders have used Ariel's interface evaluation processes — you're in good company!

Ariel's proven processes and track record ensure that your organization captures all of its knowledge assets and that it can provide meaningful, just-in-time retrieval. Regardless of the type of system your organization has, Ariel can provide your organization and end users with meaningful value. Contact us today to find out more. See the difference you can make when you Design with Humans in Mind.