Knowledge Management Regarding the Request for Royal Decorations for Military Officers in the Royal Thai Air Force

Abstract

The study entitled “Knowledge Management on the Nomination Process for Royal Decorations for Government Officials under the Royal Thai Air Force” is a qualitative research project aimed at examining existing practices, identifying problems and obstacles, and proposing development approaches for knowledge management related to the nomination process for royal decorations for officials under the Royal Thai Air Force. Data were collected through documentary research and in-depth interviews with eight key informants. The study applied a knowledge management framework comprising five dimensions: leadership, organizational culture, information technology, knowledge management measurement, and infrastructure. The findings reveal that current knowledge management practices are driven by leadership policies emphasizing the development of operational manuals, the use of a mentoring culture, and communication through social media groups. Additionally, the Royal Thai Air Force’s HRIS personnel information system is utilized to verify data related to nomination proposals for royal decorations. However, several problems and obstacles remain, including heavy workloads limiting time for learning, instability of information technology systems, and frequent personnel rotations, which disrupt the continuity of specialized expertise. The researcher therefore proposes development measures, including the establishment of an online learning center and the production of user-friendly digital learning materials, the development of an online nomination system for royal decorations, and the integration of databases with external agencies to ensure accurate verification in accordance with official regulations. Furthermore, appointing civilian defense officials to replace personnel in specialized positions is recommended to preserve institutional knowledge, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of knowledge management.