Knowledge Management Systems: Issues, Challenges, and Benefits

Knowledge Management Systems: Issues, Challenges, and Benefits

February 1999 | Maryam Alavi, Dorothy E. Leidner
This paper explores the concept of Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) and their implications for organizations. It discusses the challenges and benefits of implementing KMS, which are designed to facilitate the sharing and integration of knowledge within organizations. The study analyzed the practices and outcomes of KMS in fifty organizations across various industries. The findings indicate that interest in KMS is high, and the technological foundations are varied. The major concerns revolve around achieving the correct amount and type of accurate knowledge and garnering support for contributing to KMS. The paper defines knowledge, knowledge management, and KMS, emphasizing that knowledge is a justified personal belief that increases an individual's capacity to take effective action. Knowledge is distinguished from information and data, with knowledge being personalized and subjective. The study also highlights the importance of cultural and managerial aspects in knowledge management, as well as the need for effective communication and information sharing. The research methodology involved a survey of 109 participants from various industries, focusing on their perceptions and practices of KMS. The findings reveal that managers have different perspectives on KMS, including an information-based, technology-based, and culture-based view. The study also identifies the technologies being used to build KMS, the knowledge domains being incorporated, the champions of KMS initiatives, the desired benefits, and the major concerns regarding KMS. The study concludes that KMS are multi-faceted, requiring not only technological tools but also cultural and organizational changes. It emphasizes the importance of developing metrics to assess the benefits of KMS and the need for integrated technology architecture. The paper also discusses the role of KMS in enhancing relationships with external entities such as customers and business partners. Overall, the study provides insights into the challenges and benefits of implementing KMS and highlights the importance of aligning cultural, managerial, and organizational elements for effective knowledge management.This paper explores the concept of Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) and their implications for organizations. It discusses the challenges and benefits of implementing KMS, which are designed to facilitate the sharing and integration of knowledge within organizations. The study analyzed the practices and outcomes of KMS in fifty organizations across various industries. The findings indicate that interest in KMS is high, and the technological foundations are varied. The major concerns revolve around achieving the correct amount and type of accurate knowledge and garnering support for contributing to KMS. The paper defines knowledge, knowledge management, and KMS, emphasizing that knowledge is a justified personal belief that increases an individual's capacity to take effective action. Knowledge is distinguished from information and data, with knowledge being personalized and subjective. The study also highlights the importance of cultural and managerial aspects in knowledge management, as well as the need for effective communication and information sharing. The research methodology involved a survey of 109 participants from various industries, focusing on their perceptions and practices of KMS. The findings reveal that managers have different perspectives on KMS, including an information-based, technology-based, and culture-based view. The study also identifies the technologies being used to build KMS, the knowledge domains being incorporated, the champions of KMS initiatives, the desired benefits, and the major concerns regarding KMS. The study concludes that KMS are multi-faceted, requiring not only technological tools but also cultural and organizational changes. It emphasizes the importance of developing metrics to assess the benefits of KMS and the need for integrated technology architecture. The paper also discusses the role of KMS in enhancing relationships with external entities such as customers and business partners. Overall, the study provides insights into the challenges and benefits of implementing KMS and highlights the importance of aligning cultural, managerial, and organizational elements for effective knowledge management.
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