Using Web-based Technologies to Support Learning Needs in a High-growth, Knowledge-based Industry

Vivekanand P Kochikar, Principal Knowledge Manager, Infosys Technologies Ltd., Electronics City, Bangalore, India 561 229, [email protected] Sivaraman Yegneshwar , Head – Education & Research, Infosys Technologies Ltd., Electronics City, Bangalore, India 561 229, [email protected] Abstract  A landmark development of the late 20 century has been the increasing realization on the part of knowledge-based industries (and in particular the IT software services industry) of the need to nurture their intellectual assets. Given the demanding nature of work, global delivery models, high volumes, compressed cycle times, virtual teamwork, quick response times, and diversity of technological areas, the industry has been pushed relentlessly to reinvent its attitudes to, and modes of, learning. This paper details the efforts of Infosys (INFY), in the use of web technology to augment traditional modes as a solution to the highly demanding learning needs of its 4500 software professionals. We trace the historical evolution, the initial resistance of the experimentation phase and how it was overcome, and chronicle how the use of learning technologies has succeeded in meeting some of the learning imperatives mentioned above. We also briefly touch upon the integration of learning into the knowledge management paradigm, and sketch the role of Infosys’s proprietary KMM (Knowledge Management Maturity) model in raising the maturity of its learning process.