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Understanding Knowledge Management Concepts

The document introduces knowledge management (KM) and discusses its importance for organizations. It defines KM as processes to generate, capture, codify and transfer knowledge across an organization to achieve competitive advantage. Key drivers of KM include increasing complexity, market volatility, need for faster responsiveness, and loss of individual experience. The document also discusses knowledge management systems and how information technology can facilitate knowledge sharing and growth. Overall, the document provides an overview of what KM is, why it is important for organizations, and how knowledge management systems can support KM practices.
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100% found this document useful (2 votes)
89 views29 pages

Understanding Knowledge Management Concepts

The document introduces knowledge management (KM) and discusses its importance for organizations. It defines KM as processes to generate, capture, codify and transfer knowledge across an organization to achieve competitive advantage. Key drivers of KM include increasing complexity, market volatility, need for faster responsiveness, and loss of individual experience. The document also discusses knowledge management systems and how information technology can facilitate knowledge sharing and growth. Overall, the document provides an overview of what KM is, why it is important for organizations, and how knowledge management systems can support KM practices.
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
  • Chapter 1: Introducing Knowledge Management
  • Chapter Objectives
  • Knowledge Management - Motivation
  • 5 Ages of Civilization
  • Knowledge Resources – Intellectual Capital
  • Knowledge as Instrument in Market Competition
  • Need for Knowledge Management
  • Innovation vis-à-vis Productivity
  • Tree of Knowledge
  • Organizational Perspectives on Knowledge Management
  • What is Knowledge Management?
  • Goal of Knowledge Management
  • Knowledge Management (Business Perspective)
  • Knowledge Management (Process/Technology Perspective)
  • Forces Driving Knowledge Management
  • So, what does this mean?
  • Is Knowledge Management for Everybody?
  • Key Attributes of Knowledge Management
  • Knowledge Management Systems
  • Issues in Knowledge Management
  • Effective Knowledge Management
  • Essence of KM
  • References

Chapter

1
Introducing Knowledge Management

Chapter Objectives
Describe what KM is and what the forces are that drive
KM.
Discuss organizational issues related to KM.
Explain knowledge management systems (KMS) and
their role in the organization.
Discuss the relevance of KM in todays dynamic
environments augmented with increasing technological
complexity.
Present the benefits and considerations about KM,
including an overview of the nature of the KM projects
currently in progress at public and private organizations
around the world, and the important role that IT plays in
KM

Knowledge Management - Motivation


The 20th anniversary of the landing of an American on
the surface of the Moon occasioned many bittersweet
reflections. Sweet was the celebration of the
historic event itself... Bitter, for those same
enthusiasts, was the knowledge that during the
twenty intervening years much of the national
consensus that launched this country on its first
lunar adventure had evaporated... a generation of
men and women who had defined their lives to a large
extent in terms of this nation's epochal departure from
Earth's surface was taking its leave of the program
they had built [Fries, 1992].

5 Ages of Civilization

Wisdom
Knowledge

Industrial
Agricultural
Hunter/Gatherer

Knowledge Resources
Intellectual Capital
Companies with high level of market valuation
are often companies with high levels of
intangible assets, often referred to as their
intellectual capital
Intellectual capital: any asset that cannot be
measured but is used by a company to its
advantage
E.g. Knowledge, collective expertise, good will, brand
value and patent benefits fail to directly show up on
conventional accounting documents

Knowledge as Instrument
in Market Competition
The ability of companies to exploit their intangible assets
has become far more decisive than their ability to invest
and manage their physical assets
As markets shift, uncertainty dominates, technologies
proliferate, competitors multiply and products and
services become obsolete rapidly, successful
companies are characterized by their ability to
consistently create new knowledge, quickly
disseminate it and embody it in their new products
and services

Need for Knowledge Management


Knowledge has become the key resource, for
a nations military strength as well as for its
economic
strength
is
fundamentally
different from the traditional key resources of
the economist land, labor, and even
capitalwe need systematic work on the
quality
of
knowledge
and
the
productivity
of
knowledge
the
performance capacity, if not the survival, of
any organization in the knowledge society will
come increasingly to depend on those two
factors [Drucker,1994]

Innovation vis--vis
Productivity
The source of wealth is something specifically human:
KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge applied to tasks we already know how to do
is PRODUCTIVITY
Knowledge applied to tasks that are new and different is
INNOVATION
Peter F. Drucker, 1992

Tree of Knowledge

Explicit

20%

Tacit

80%

Organizational Perspectives on
Knowledge Management
Business perspective
Focusing on why, where, and to what extent the organization must
invest in or exploit knowledge
Strategies, products and services, alliances, acquisitions, or
divestments should be considered from knowledge-related points of
view

Management perspective
Focusing on determining, organizing, directing, facilitating and
monitoring knowledge-related practices and activities required to
achieve the desired business strategies and objectives

Hands-on perspective
Focusing on applying the expertise to conduct explicit knowledgerelated work and tasks

What is Knowledge Management?


Knowledge management (KM) may simply be defined as
doing what is needed to get the most out of knowledge
resources.
KM is defined as processes necessary to generate,
capture, codify, and transfer knowledge across the
organization to achieve competitive advantage.
Individuals are the vital source of organizational
knowledge.
In general, KM focuses on organizing and making
available important knowledge, wherever and
whenever it is needed.
KM is also related to the concept of intellectual capital.

Goal of Knowledge Management


Goal is to improve Institutional effectiveness thru
Individual effectiveness.
Mean is by increasing intellectual specialization and the
ability to act.
Tool is using ICT as an enabler.
End is having rational processes for identifying new
opportunities, more wealth, innovation and continuous
improvement.

Knowledge Management
(Business Perspective)

Knowledge management is a business


activity with two primary aspects:
Treating the knowledge component of business
activities as an explicit concern of business reflected in
strategy, policy, and practice at all levels of the
organization; and, making a direct connection between
an organizations intellectual asstes both explicit
(recorded) and tacit (personal know-how) and
positive business results. (Barclay and Murray, 1997)
KM is a collaborative and integrated approach to the
creation, capture, organization, access and use of an
enterprises intellectual assets. (Grey, 1996)

Knowledge Management
(Process/Technology Perspective)
KM is the concept under which information is turned into
actionable knowledge and made available effortlessly in a
usable form to the people who can apply it (Information Week,
Sept. 1, 2003)
Leveraging collective wisdom to increase responsiveness and
innovation (Carl Frappaolo, Delphi Group, Boston)
A systematic approach to manage the use of information in order
to provide a continous flow of knowledge to the right people at
the right time enabling efficient and effective decision making in
their everyday business (Steve Ward, Northrop Grumman)
A KM system is a virtual repository for relevant information
which is critical to tasks performed daily by organizational
knowledge workers ([Link])

Forces Driving Knowledge Management


1. Increasing Domain Complexity
Complexity of internal and external processes, increased
competition, and the rapid advancement of technology all
contribute to increasing domain complexity.

2. Accelerating Market Volatility


The speed of change, or volatility, within each market domain
has increased rapidly in the past decade.

3. Intensified Speed of Responsiveness


The time required to take action based upon subtle changes
within and across domains is decreasing.

4. Diminishing Individual Experience


High employee turnover rates have resulted in individuals with
decision-making authority having less tenure within their
organizations than ever before.

Forces Driving Knowledge Management


[2]
5. Globalization of Business
organization today are more global multisite, multilingual and
multicultural in nature.

5. Learner Organization
we are doing more and we are doing it faster, but we also need to
work smarter as knowledge workers, adopting an increased pace
and workload.

5. Technological Advances
advances in IT not only have made connectivity ubiquitous but
have radically changed expectations. We are expected to be
on at all times, and the turnaround time in responding is now
measured in minutes, not weeks.

So, what does this mean?


Faced with increased complexity, market volatility and
accelerated responsiveness, todays younger manager
feels less adequate to make the difficult decisions
faced each day.
KM is important for organizations that continually
face downsizing or a high turnover percentage due
to the nature of the industry.

Is Knowledge Management for


Everybody?
KM is important for all organizations
Todays decision maker faces the pressure to
make better and faster decisions in an
environment characterized by a high domain
complexity and market volatility, even in light of
lack of experience typically from the decision-maker
outcome of those decisions could have such a
considerable impact on the organization

Key Attributes of
Knowledge Management
Based on Ruggles abd Holtshouse (1999):

Generating new knowledge


Accessing valuable knowledge from outside sources
Using accessible knowledge in decision making
Embedding knowledge in processes, products and/or services
Representing knowledge in documents, databases and software
Facilitating knowledge growth through culture and incentives
Transferring existing knowledge into other parts of organization
Measuring the value of knowledge asstes and/or impact of KM

Knowledge Management Systems


Information technology facilitates sharing as well as
accelerated growth of knowledge.
Information technology allows the movement of
information at increasing speeds and efficiencies.
Today, knowledge is accumulating at an ever increasing
rate. It is estimated that knowledge is currently doubling
every 18 months and, of course, the pace is increasing...
Technology facilitates the speed at which knowledge and
ideas proliferate Bradley [1996]

Knowledge Management Systems


Knowledge management mechanisms are organizational
or structural means used to promote knowledge
management.
The use of leading-edge information technologies (e.g.,
Web-based conferencing) to support KM mechanisms
enables dramatic improvement in KM.
knowledge management systems (KMS): the synergy
between latest technologies and social/structural
mechanisms

Knowledge Management Systems


KM systems classification based on observations on
the KM systems implementations:
Knowledge Discovery Systems
Knowledge Capture Systems
Knowledge Sharing Systems
Knowledge Application Systems

Knowledge Management Systems


Artificial
intelligence
and
machine
learning
technologies important role in the KM processes,
enabling the development of KMS
Experience
management
basically
experience
develops over time, to combine into more general
experience, which then combines into general
knowledge

Issues in Knowledge Management


Many KM systems implemented at organizations have
failed to enable sharing the knowledge.
Effective KM is not about making a choice between
software vs. wetware (brainware), classroom vs. handson, formal vs. informal, technical vs. socialuses all the
options available to motivated employees to put
knowledge to work [and] depends on recognizing that
all of these options basically need each other [Stewart,
2002].
One of the primary differences between traditional
information systems and KM systems is the active
role that users of KM systems play on building the
content of such systems. In IS, it is delegated to MIS
department.

Knowledge Management

Locate
Share
Leverage

Tactic Knowledge
Explicit Knowledge

To develop :
New Ideas & Brands
Solutions for problem
solving
Core competencies

To achieve :
Personal & Society objectives
Global Competitiveness
Market Leadership

Effective Knowledge Management


80% - Organizational culture and human
factors
Organizational culture is "the specific collection of
values and norms that are shared by people and
groups in an organization and that control the way
they interact with each other and with stakeholders
outside the organization.

20% - Technology

Effective KM
Reduce dependence on individuals.
Reduce cycle time: Standardize and speed up
customer/Request for Information responses.
Cutting time to market
Re-use solutions across projects/initiatives.
Integrate SBU level repositories into
organization-wide repositories (break functional
silos).

Essence of KM
1. Knowledge is first created in the peoples minds. KM
practices must first identify ways to encourage and
stimulate the ability of employees to develop new
knowledge.
2. KM methodologies and technologies must enable
effective ways to obtain, represent, organize, reuse, and renew this knowledge.
3. KM should not distance itself from the knowledge
owners, but instead celebrate and recognize their
position as experts in the organization.

References
Irma Becerra-Fernandez and Rajiv Sabherwal (2010).
Knowledge Management Systems and Processes. M.E.
Sharpe, Inc. ISBN: 978-0-7656-2351-5
Elias M. Awad, Hassan M. Ghaziri (2004). Knowledge
Management. Prentice Hall. ISBN: 0-13-034820-1.
Madanmohan Rao (2004). Knowledge Management
Tools and Techniques: Practitioners and Experts
Evaluate KM Solutions. Butterworth-Heinemann. ISBN:
0750678186.
Amrit Tiwana (2002). The Knowledge Management
Toolkit: Orchestrating IT, Strategy, and Knowledge
Platforms (2nd Edition). Prentice Hall. ISBN:
013009224X

Common questions

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Intellectual capital and Knowledge Management intersect as KM practices directly manage and utilize an organization's intellectual assets, including collective expertise, goodwill, and know-how, which do not appear on traditional accounting documents. This intersection is important for competitive advantage because it allows organizations to exploit their intangible assets, leading to innovation and superior market performance. Firms that effectively manage intellectual capital through KM can quickly adapt to changes, innovate, and disseminate new knowledge, which is critical in dynamic and competitive industries .

Knowledge Management Systems offer several benefits to organizations, including enhanced knowledge sharing, accelerated growth of knowledge, and improved efficiencies in information movement. KMS facilitate continuous improvement by standardizing processes, reducing cycle times, and enabling the reuse of solutions across projects. These systems integrate knowledge from various organizational levels into a comprehensive repository, breaking down functional silos and providing a platform for continuous learning and adaptation. They also encourage the development of new ideas and drive market leadership by fostering organizational knowledge growth .

Knowledge Management Systems play a crucial role in modern organizations by acting as virtual repositories for relevant information that is critical to the daily tasks of knowledge workers. These systems leverage technological advancements such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to facilitate the development of KMS, enabling improved efficiency in the management, use, and dissemination of information. Advanced technologies enhance KMS efficiency by providing a continuous flow of actionable knowledge to the right people at the right time, thereby supporting effective decision-making .

Tacit and explicit knowledge are integral to Knowledge Management strategies. Tacit knowledge, being personal and hard to formalize, presents challenges in capturing and sharing, while explicit knowledge is documented and easier to manage. KM strategies must address these differences by finding ways to articulate and codify tacit knowledge, such as through narratives and experiences, while efficiently organizing and disseminating explicit knowledge. The challenge lies in encouraging employees to share their tacit insights and ensuring that explicit knowledge is accessible and easily retrievable across the organization .

The key components of Knowledge Management as identified in the document include generating, capturing, codifying, and transferring knowledge across the organization. These components contribute to organizational effectiveness by ensuring that the organization's intellectual capital is utilized efficiently, skills and expertise are shared, and innovation and productivity are enhanced . Additionally, the involvement of individuals as primary sources of knowledge and the integration of Information Communication Technology (ICT) as an enabler further support the improvement of institutional effectiveness .

Knowledge Management helps organizations navigate the challenges of rapid technological advancement and market volatility by enabling them to consistently create new knowledge and quickly disseminate it across the organization. This allows for swift adaptation to changes and supports decision-making processes in dynamic environments. KM techniques, such as systematic work on knowledge quality and productivity, are critical for organizations to maintain a competitive advantage despite the increasing complexity of markets and technologies .

Organizational culture significantly affects the success of Knowledge Management initiatives, as it constitutes 80% of the factors contributing to effective KM. A culture that values shared norms and values promotes knowledge-sharing behaviors and supports the integration of KM practices into everyday activities. When a culture encourages collaboration, open communication, and acknowledges employees' expertise, it enhances KM effectiveness. Conversely, if an organizational culture is resistant to change or knowledge hoarding is prevalent, KM initiatives are less likely to succeed. Thus, nurturing a supportive culture is critical for achieving the desired outcomes from KM efforts .

The impact of Knowledge Management on an organization's performance can be measured using several methods. One approach is to assess improvements in key performance indicators such as productivity, innovation rates, or time-to-market for new products. Another method involves evaluating knowledge-related metrics, such as the number of knowledge-sharing activities or the quality and creativity of problem-solving outcomes. Additionally, capturing employee engagement and satisfaction with KM practices provides insights into cultural impacts. These measurements help determine the value KM brings to strategic objectives and its influence on achieving competitive advantage .

Globalization impacts Knowledge Management practices by necessitating a more coordinated and integrated approach to managing knowledge across diverse, multi-site, and multicultural organizations. As businesses become more global, knowledge sharing must occur seamlessly across different languages and cultures, requiring sophisticated KM systems that support multilingual capabilities and cultural nuances. Moreover, globalization increases the need for organizations to respond quickly to global market shifts, further emphasizing the importance of efficient KM practices that enable rapid knowledge dissemination and adaptation .

One major challenge organizations face in implementing effective Knowledge Management systems is the failure to facilitate knowledge sharing due to an overemphasis on technological solutions without integrating 'wetware' or human aspects. This challenge can be addressed by recognizing the interdependence of technical and social elements and ensuring that KM practices encourage human interaction and expertise sharing. Additionally, effective KM requires acknowledging that users play an active role in content development, which diverges from traditional information systems where responsibilities are delegated to the MIS department .

Chapter 1
Introducing Knowledge Management
Introducing Knowledge Management
Chapter Objectives
Describe what KM is and what the forces are that drive 
KM.
Discuss organizational issues related to KM.
Knowledge Management - Motivation
   “The 20th anniversary of the landing of an American on 
the surface of the Moon occasion
(http://www.mamanaviation.co.il/_Uploads/63015_5_2003-Oxes_plowing_03.JPG) (http://www.pacificenvironmentalbc.com/unjimages/
Knowledge Resources –
Intellectual Capital
Companies with high level of market valuation 
are often companies with high leve
Knowledge as Instrument 
in Market Competition
The ability of companies to exploit their intangible assets 
has become far m
Need for Knowledge Management
“Knowledge has become the key resource, for 
a nation’s military strength as well as for its 
e
Innovation vis-à-vis
Productivity
The source of wealth is something specifically human:  
KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge applied to ta
Tree of Knowledge
Explicit
Tacit
20%
80%
Organizational Perspectives on 
Knowledge Management 
Business perspective
Focusing on why, where, and to what extent the o

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