Knowledge sharing is an important prerequisite for Senior Project Manager Per Tybjerg Aldrich’s work. “When you’re involved in research and development in the context of the working environment, as I am, much of your work is dependent on others being willing to share their knowledge. In return, they expect you to do the same.”
Since 2001, when he started at COWI, he has shared his knowledge with others by uploading 20 of his publications to COWI’s website where selected reports and articles written by COWI’s employees can be found. These publications also form part of the company’s Intellectual Capital Report (ICR).The subjects of Aldrich’s articles range from seniors in the workplace, stress and the costs associated with the working environment – topics that have led to a number of enquiries from journalists, students, potential customers and knowledge institutions. The publications have also resulted in several lectures.“In 2007 alone, I gave ten lectures on the basis of a report on occupational health and safety management accounting, which I prepared for the Danish Working Environment Council.”
He acknowledges that interest in the articles is due not just to the fact that his publications are accessible on COWI’s website, but also on customers’ websites, as customers are generally also interested in results being distributed widely. He believes that knowledge sharing not only creates synergy, but is a way for both him and COWI to brand themselves.“When COWI’s expertise is made available in the form of research reports, we signal that we’re at the forefront of our field. That makes us more attractive to potential customers and collaboration partners. That’s intelligent marketing, because the data in reports is more credible and applicable than the information found in newsletters and service data sheets.”Aldrich believes there is another aspect, too: “By sharing our knowledge with others, we contribute to the development of our society and show that we are not just interested in profits.”