Is it possible to scale knowledge-based services?

Can knowledge services scale independently from the scaling of human resources?

Information technology has achieved such high level of sophistication that nowadays it is possible to use today's global networked applications and devices in such a way that you can automate some aspects of the knowledge service value chain.

It is not so much about codifying and automating processes that are repeated over and over, but it is a matter of breaking them down.

Its unique components can be reused and combined in such a way that, while not scaling as easy as much as other more automated transactional services, a considerable amount of information-based work can be done less painfully and knowledge workers can focus on the more high-value activities.

Needless to say, technologists and the products they create for knowledge workers will have a major impact in the future effectiveness of companies that are trying to achieve high growth. Since technology will be a source of major competitive advantage, knowledge-based companies have no choice but to hire great talent that can constantly innovate their homegrown information technology tools and ensure its IP is protected from competitors.


illustration: Julian Montague