Abstract
To reduce the COVID-19 contagion, the organizations have had to implement new organizational models based on the technology intensive, social distance and the reduction of face-to-face contacts. These conditions have led to the creation of virtual communities. A Virtual Community (VC) can be defined as a social entity which, using ICT, allows the sharing and transfer of knowledge between members of the community, bridging the geographical distance. VC are based on a Human-Device-Human interaction. For this reason, VC are based on the continuous and active participation of members, a rapid access to shared knowledge and reciprocity of information. Also in the healthcare sector, there has been the creation of VC. A VC in the healthcare sector aims to share knowledge related to the delivery of health services, provide support and discuss problems related to health and treatment, share documents and consult doctors. Few studies have focused on the VC in the healthcare sector, from the perspective of knowledge management.
This study aims to identify and understand the elements of the VC in the healthcare sector. An explorative-qualitative methodology was used. Mobile applications (M-apps) created by public authorities in Italy were analyzed. The results highlighted that the VC, through the M-apps, is a complex system characterized by a reciprocal relationship between the members. Some aspects, such as trust and functionality of the M-app and speed of response, can allow the success of the virtual community. M-apps are a useful tool for KM and enable to support healthcare sector.
Recommended Citation
Cristofaro, Concetta Lucia; Reina, Rocco; Ventura, Marzia; Melina, Anna Maria; and Vesperi, Walter, "Knowledge management in virtual community: some implications in COVID-19 pandemic" (2022). ITAIS 2022 Proceedings. 24.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/itais2022/24