Introduction
Knowledge risks are often overlooked, yet they play a crucial role in how sustainably an organization can grow. In her HSTalks presentation “Managing Knowledge Risks”, Prof. Dr. Susanne Durst reminds us of something essential: knowledge is constantly shifting. What seems valuable today may become irrelevant tomorrow. And above all, knowledge isn’t always an asset—in some situations, it can turn into a liability or even create risks organizations rarely anticipate.
The presentation challenges the prevailing understanding that knowledge is inherently positive by focusing on potential risks associated with knowledge. It is designed for business students and anyone interested in knowledge management or related subjects, such as risk management.
Watch the full presentation: https://hstalks.com/t/8672/managing-knowledge-risks/?business
Key Takeaways from the Presentation
Bringing Attention to Knowledge-Related Risks
The talk sets a clear objective: bring attention to why managing knowledge-related risks matters for long-term, sustainable business development. Through the combination of theory and a case study tailored to the content, the presentation demonstrates what is meant by knowledge risks and why these should be taken into account in organizations to better manage the resource of knowledge.
Knowledge as a Dynamic Resource
Knowledge ages and evolves constantly. Its value doesn’t stay fixed, which means organizations need to regularly question how they handle it. Research shows that the plethora of potential knowledge risks that may occur in organizations requires a set of tools and approaches to address them effectively.
Knowledge as Asset and Liability
While knowledge can strengthen an organization, it can also expose gaps—whether through outdated material, poor handovers, missing documentation, or strong dependency on specific people. Studies indicate that knowledge risks have a direct and significant detrimental impact on business sustainability.
Adopting a Knowledge-at-Risk Lens
Instead of discarding “old” knowledge too quickly, Prof. Dr. Durst suggests adopting a knowledge-at-risk lens. This means looking at knowledge with neutrality and recognizing both its potential and its weaknesses. This approach enables organizations to have a more holistic view of knowledge—understanding it as both an asset and a potential liability.
Categories of Knowledge Risks
Knowledge risks can be classified into three main categories:
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Human knowledge risks: Related to employee turnover, knowledge hoarding, and dependency on key individuals
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Technological knowledge risks: Concerning data security, system failures, and obsolete technologies
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Operational knowledge risks: Including knowledge waste, knowledge gaps, improper knowledge application, and communication failures
These risks, when not properly managed, can negatively impact organizational performance and sustainability.
Relevance for Inclusive and Sustainable Development
At S4ICE, we see this perspective as essential. Building inclusive and sustainable development models requires not only generating new knowledge, but also protecting, understanding, and managing what already exists. A commitment to sustainable development necessitates risk and uncertainty management, along with robust knowledge management systems.
For entrepreneurs, policymakers, and educators, the message is clear: effective knowledge management is intentional—not accidental. Organizations must assess knowledge risks and their likely implications, as well as implement appropriate mitigation strategies.
Conclusion
The empirical evidence confirms the potential role of knowledge risks in reducing the sustainability of firms. By emphasizing the risks related to knowledge, this emerging field contributes to understanding the particular role of knowledge for sustained organizational development. Organizations that proactively address knowledge risks are better positioned to maintain competitive advantages and achieve long-term sustainability.
Explore the full presentation: https://hstalks.com/t/8672/managing-knowledge-risks/?business
