One intriguing thought your post did trigger.

People do things that are easy, that are human, that are attractive. That's why people will much more often ask somebody for help than look up the information in a document.

SO, I'm imagining a visual metaphor where some paths (asking gal in next cubicle) are short and smooth, AND other paths (digging into a cumbersome KM system) are bumpy and difficult, and others (spending time in an SM system) have longer paths but perhaps more scenic, enjoyable.

Yeah, I like this. Wish I could draw...