KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT can be defined as providing correct information to appropriate individuals at stipulated times. It also involves assisting other personnel to come up with knowledge which they then share with others. The information being exchanged should meet requirements of the customer.
The primary objective of the customer is likely to ensure provision of information to employees including other parties necessary for making good decisions. With knowledge management, entrepreneurs are capable of gaining power that is necessary for compelling the business to meet its objectives. Entrepreneurs are also able to teach their employees how to effectively manage their objectives. Employees are also able to adhere to safety protocols.
There are various advantages brought about by knowledge management. The flow of information between different employees is made very smooth. Through such knowledge, business development skills are permanently installed in the employees. That means one cannot lose the information no matter where or in what condition she or he is. It doesn’t matter even if the employee is on vacation or seriously ill. The information passed never fades away. This in turn leads to substantial savings.
The organization does not suffer great losses and therefore productivity is high. There is no money lost in supplying the information to employees or other people. Time is also effectively managed as information can be dispatched quickly. Through knowledge management, employees can be innovative. Employees can easily access unique ideas from their peers. These ideas may be appealing to the general public and therefore the company establishes a strong marketing base. A powerful workforce can be established especially if the company covers a global scale. Employees can exchange their cultures and opinions. Sharing of assets between employees is also enhanced.
To increase the overall productivity of the company, knowledge management needs to be implemented. This can be possible by utilizing technologically-based systems. Some entrepreneurs also use softer systems. Technologically-based systems allow people to check over available information. A good example is collaborative wiki or intranet. Such information is usually stored in the company’s database so that people can easily access it. Softer systems involve conducting of seminars and meetings where people share information with each other. Such people undergo mentorship. Softer systems also comprise of Internet forums. People can acquire instant messages using such systems. These systems are suitable for acquiring tacit as well as explicit knowledge.
When implementing knowledge management, there are various factors to consider. Generally, many companies suffer due to lack of tacit knowledge. First, you need to conduct brainstorming sessions. This helps in capturing creative ideas people are giving. When organizing a presentation, make sure you have a time to allow easier flow of information. A large team may not be ideal since incidences of disagreements can result. Employees should feel comfortable while sharing the information. Actually, many employees are unwilling to share their knowledge and experience with others as they feel these are the only assets which make them valuable. That means, for effective knowledge management, employees’ needs should be paramount. Knowledge management should be practiced continuously. This makes employees participate in the process actively and feel comfortable about it.
