The decision rationale technique captures each option, the reasoning behind that option and the evidence which supports the judgement, in a simple, rapid and intuitive fashion.

Templates ensure that the decision logic is properly constructed, supporting documentation is cross-referenced and an audit trail is created for the future.

Moreover, the build-up of a repository of cases and templates with expert annotation has been shown to improve productivity and quality; and to reduce re-work.

By linking this repository as a learning aid within mentoring guides, further improvements are achievable.

With increasing globalisation of the enterprise and an extended supply chain, such collaboration tools which can provide instant availability of critical know-how at the point of need, are proving invaluable.

Early indications of savings from mandating the technique as part of design review milestones have been benchmarked at between 10-15%.

Since 2007, we have collaborated extensively with the Oxford e-Research Centre, in order to conduct field research in real end-user environments, to assess and to filter innovations in knowledge transfer methods and information management.

Having identified what's worth taking forward, we work with selected partners to establish prototypes and conduct rigorous evaluation before integrating the most valuable elements within our existing Service Line suite.

For example, the use of video-based analysis techniques at Hopkins Architects Ltd has surfaced important new insights into improving collaboration and accelerating learning, and enriched our ability to deliver valuable knowledge and re-usable learning resources via multi-media.

Our fresh approach to learning using advanced knowledge resources which can be updated in the course of performing everyday work tasks is gaining recognition. By blending traditional classroom methods with e-Learning and social-media based interaction, the learning organisation becomes a reality.