Support for Knowledge and Innovations in Software Development – Community within Company: Inner Source Environment

Abstract

This case study considers a software development support portal adapted from open source developer communities into a company internal, so called inner-source development environment. With theoretical insights into knowledge management (KM) models, recent advancements in KM theory building, and observations of the inner source platform we make observations as regarding the KM approach and suggestions for its further development. Both technological and human components of KM are considered. The results of this study, can be generally applicable to the knowledge creation and innovation support in software development. We believe that many software companies are following the example and building virtual environments to support the knowledge processes and innovation in their activities. The case company, Nokia, is a pioneer in KM efforts for the software organization.