Knowledge Fika

In this episode of Knowledge Fika, we sit down with Cindy Hubert, Knowledge Management Fellow at APQC, to explore the evolving landscape of KM through the lens of someone who’s been shaping it for decades. Cindy shares her KM journey, unpacks the ever-blurring line between AI and knowledge work, and reflects on the enduring importance of people in KM systems.We also dive into knowledge maturity models, the crucial role of conversations in tacit knowledge transfer, and the real-world work of a KM Fellow (spoiler: it’s not just theory and white papers).Whether you're steeped in KM or just curious about how organizations really learn and adapt, Cindy brings both warmth and wisdom to the fika table.About Cindy Hubert: Cindy Hubert is the first-ever Knowledge Management Fellow at APQC, bringing nearly 30 years of experience advancing the field of KM. She’s led the development of key frameworks like APQC’s KM Maturity Model and the Interactive KM Framework, and has guided hundreds of organizations in building and measuring effective KM strategies. A frequent speaker, co-author of The New Edge in Knowledge, and longtime advocate for people-centered KM, Cindy blends deep expertise with a passion for practical, human-driven knowledge sharing.About APQC: APQC (American Productivity & Quality Center) is a member-based nonprofit that helps organizations improve productivity and performance through benchmarking, best practices, process improvement, and knowledge management. Known globally for its thought leadership in KM, APQC provides research, tools, and advisory services to support smarter, more effective ways of working. Learn more at https://www.apqc.org

Join Andrew Herd, a senior knowledge management expert with 25 years in the space sector and Kristina Mirchuk, founder of GEIST Consultancy, as they explore the KM Landscape 2025 project. They discuss the significance of co-creation and inclusion in knowledge management. Key topics include the evolution of personal and organizational knowledge management, the importance of diverse voices, and bridging international perspectives. Plus, they delve into the shift from static to dynamic knowledge mobilization, emphasizing active community engagement.

Steve Pucelik, Senior Product Manager at Microsoft, shares his extensive knowledge of SharePoint Embedded, a game-changer in document management. He discusses how this platform enhances collaboration with seamless co-authoring and secure storage. Challenges faced by customer service teams are addressed, emphasizing improved efficiency through integrated support systems. Steve also highlights the upcoming SharePoint Embedded roadshow featuring hands-on labs and expert talks. Plus, he delves into the Swedish tradition of Fika, illustrating how breaks can boost innovation and problem-solving.

Join Jonathan Gordon-Till, a seasoned knowledge management expert and Community of Practice Leader at Mondelez, as he tackles the crucial balance between technology and human connection. He discusses the evolution of knowledge sharing in organizations, emphasizing the power of informal conversations and community bonds. Jonathan reveals the success of his 'Totally Random' program, demonstrating how random coffee chats enhance collaboration and innovation. He also reflects on the impact of AI in knowledge management, advocating for a human-centered approach for better outcomes.

Sven Rinke, a Senior Director at SimCorp with a PhD in Theoretical Physics, discusses transforming knowledge management in professional services. He shares his journey from East Germany to fintech, emphasizing the importance of creating a culture of knowledge sharing. Sven highlights the challenges of aligning sales promises with product realities and the role of Knowledge Flows in addressing these gaps. The conversation also delves into the evolving impact of AI in enhancing learning and validation processes, and the power of informal connections in driving innovation.

Ninez Piezas-Jerbi, a seasoned knowledge management professional and former senior statistician at the WTO, dives into the transformative impact of mentorship in knowledge management. She shares insights on building authentic relationships between mentors and mentees, highlighting the chemistry that fuels these connections. Ninez also compares knowledge management practices between NGOs and the private sector, revealing unexpected lessons and the importance of empathy. Plus, enjoy a lighthearted conversation about the Swedish Fika tradition and its role in workplace dynamics!

Katya Linossi, co-founder and CEO of ClearPeople, brings 25 years of IT experience to the table, alongside Stephen Bedford, the Product Director driving the Atlas knowledge platform. They discuss the critical need for contextualizing knowledge, especially with the rise of AI services. Katya shares her inspiration behind ClearPeople and the development of Atlas, while Stephen emphasizes the value of user experience and governance in knowledge management. They also touch on the human element in AI adoption and the importance of strategic breaks for productivity.

In this episode of Knowledge Fika, we are joined by Andrew Pope who has spent his career working on digital productivity and collaboration. We discuss Knowledge Management, collaboration, AI readiness and the challenges and opportunities of hybrid work. We also talk a bit about digital detoxing and of course, our favorite fika. Andrew describes how the goal of his work is to make work (and life) easier and more engaging through technology and shares some recent research and findings that were recently published in a white paper, which is linked below.  About Andrew Pope:  Andrew looks at workplace technology through the eyes of the workforce, as owner of Designing Collaboration and co-founder of Designing AI Heroes. He helps his clients to develop ways of work that ensure workplace tools work for them: solving their problems, bringing people together and adopting more effective and productive practices, such as improving meetings, leveraging AI and aligning distributed teams.   Andrew has advised and coached UK and Australian government departments as well as large multinationals on how to better leverage tools like Microsoft 365 and to develop today’s digital leaders, although he likes to balance his time with enjoying coffee, going trail running and doing silly stuff with the kids (though not at all the same time). Link to the white paper on hybrid work mentioned in the episode: https://www.designingcollab.com/emp-experience 

Emily Harburg, CEO and founder of PairUp, discusses her journey from Google and Meta to launching a generative AI platform aimed at enhancing workplace knowledge sharing. She dives into the challenges of onboarding and knowledge sharing, emphasizing the interplay between AI and human insights. The conversation highlights the vital role of communities in businesses and the importance of 'Fika' breaks in building trust among employees. Emily also shares her passion for supporting women in tech and mentoring initiatives, making technology more accessible.

Sierra Woods is a dynamic innovator and entrepreneur, originally aspiring to be a professional soccer player. In her conversation, she dives into her transformative journey with chronic pain and the need for better patient-provider communication. Sierra introduces her new Knowledge Mobilization paradigm, emphasizing the crucial roles of curiosity and reciprocity. She also shares how trust and community drive impactful knowledge sharing, contrasting traditional linear approaches with more relational methods. Plus, there's a nostalgic chat about Tim Hortons and the joys of coffee culture!