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Knowledge Work

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What It Means To Be a Knowledge Worker: Actions, Roles and Productivity
Simon K. Caines
University of Maryland University College

Abstract
This paper discusses the concept of the knowledge worker. It seeks to describe the evolution of the knowledge worker from the point at which the term itself was coined by Peter Drucker; who they are and the type of work in which they are engaged. The paper will address the value of knowledge workers to organization, challenges associated with measuring their productivity in the workplace and the future outlook for this class of employees. What this paper does not attempt to provide are answers to many of the vexing questions surrounding knowledge work and the people who perform it. The paper will draw from current and past literature on the subject.

What It Means To Be a Knowledge Worker: Actions, Roles and Productivity
The Knowledge Worker
In 1959 renowned management writer and thinker Peter Drucker coined the term ‘knowledge worker’. Drucker recognized that 20th century American corporate society had begun an evolution from the manual laborers of the industrial economy to one where the bulk of workers used their heads more than their hands (Drucker, 1999). According to Drucker, knowledge workers are “…high level employees who apply theoretical and analytical knowledge, acquired through formal education, to develop new products or services” (Drucker, 1994, p. 63). While the definition has evolved over the years by other management experts, with the introduction of the concept, Drucker ushered in a new era of management theory and practice. For the purposes of this paper, a knowledge worker is defined as a producer of knowledge, ideas and information at work. This paper will explore knowledge worker roles and responsibilities, value to organizations and future outlook for this class of employees.
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