Knowledge kreation in experience producing event organizations : a case study on network learning and internal learning processes

The purpose of this study was to create a better understanding of learning processes in an event-producing tourist attraction. This project-oriented organization has a distinctive structural design which creates other challenges than year-round producing companies, and the aim has been to examine how this type of organization learns from the external environment and how they expand the level of knowledge through internal learning processes. The study has developed a conceptual model inspired by previous literature , which is based on cluster - and knowledge creation theory, and is the theoretical basis for this study. The issues were answered through a qualitative case study in the form of a smaller organization that arranges international cycling events in the Lillehammer region. Interviews were conducted with the solid core of the organization , department , and a destination representative, to highlight the case from multiple perspectives to understand the context as a whole. The analysis was done on the basis of the conceptual model as the ideal learning scenario , and was through the presentation of the empirical material , modified according to the perceived reality in which the business operates, in which appeared differentiated in relation to the ideal theoretical basis . These modifications arised from the results which showed the importance of learning from the local environment was very limited, while learning through global relationships appeared to be far more valuable . Learning in temporary clusters with other global organizers was found particular rewarding. The study has provided a theoretical model in which can describe and provide an understanding of the phenomenon of events. Other similar organizations can then use this model to understand how these processes work , to point out potential weaknesses and improvements in these processes , and transfer this knowledge into their own context , to move their organization towards the ideal scenario.M-Ø