Knowledge management studies is a growing field that looks at the many ways in which people deal with the large bodies of information available through globalization and technology. Examining knowledge management cases from specific business or government agencies can help your business find creative solutions to address similarly complex needs in your own work.

Knowledge management case studies are published in a variety of forms and typically include a description of a business's problem, the solutions explored through knowledge management and the outcomes if available. With the widespread publication of such pieces, you can likely find a case study in knowledge management in your industry or with similar features to your business.

Get to know the case studies on knowledge management basics by drawing from the following areas:

1. Read articles about case studies in knowledge management online.
2. Check out business magazines and forums for perspectives on knowledge management.
3. Consult books on knowledge management case studies.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Locate business cases in knowledge management from industry sites online

Online publications for business are one of the leading sources of knowledge management case studies. These websites typically publish well-known case studies as a short description of one particular business or organization's solution to a complex organizational problem, offering a short explanation that can be read quickly.

I recommend: CIO publishes case studies on knowledge management for a range of business knowledge management situations such as Frito-Lay. The Provider's Edge also publishes articles about Siemens, Shell, Whirlpool and other companies and the knowledge management issues they have encountered.

Read about case studies on knowledge management in magazines and forums

Because of the complex problems they pose for organizations, many knowledge management issues are better suited for a forum-type discussion or magazine publication that includes topics from a range of related areas. You can read case studies in knowledge management in KM magazines in print and online, and become familiar with a variety of perspectives in KM forums.

I recommend: Inside Knowledge magazine presents cases in knowledge management as well as additional information on related topics like collaboration and e-learning to help you benefit the most from the cases and contexts presented. Gain a better understanding of knowledge management by reading the definition and process of knowledge management, as well as a diagram of where KM fits into program goals, from the case of NASA.

Find cases in knowledge management published in books online and in print

A number of knowledge management studies books are available, which include multiple case studies as well as some added background and theory for knowledge management. A book on KM theory and cases is a comprehensive resource that can provide you with a broader understanding of how knowledge management issues are resolved and the tools to apply knowledge management concepts.

I recommend: Knowledge Board has two books for free download, one with lessons from the field and another with practical methods and techniques. David Skryme Associates also has a list of print resources, especially books, on knowledge management studies at various levels.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Knowledge management studies is a complex field that deals with a limitless range of problems, not just for businesses but for any type of organization. Rather than looking for a one-size-fits-all solution in knowledge management case studies, try to apply different aspects of various cases to your own situation for a more authentic solution.

Knowledge management case studies may be some of your best sources of information on the benefits, and challenges, of implementing a knowledge management system at your company. Knowledge management is a growing trend, as more companies realize that their intellectual resources are just as valuable as their financial assets.

But what does knowledge management include? How can it help a company? And what's the best way to implement it? These are all questions that case studies on knowledge management can help you answer.

Through knowledge management case analysis, you can learn:

1. What a knowledge management system must include
2. How long it takes to implement a knowledge management system
3. How to educate your employees about knowledge management issues
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use knowledge management analysis to discover the benefits of knowledge management

You may have heard about the benefits of a knowledge management system, but aren't sure how they apply to your company. Or maybe you need to hear from people who have used something before you feel comfortable investing the time, energy and resources to implement it at your own organization. Knowledge management studies outline how some companies have saved money or increased sales through their knowledge management systems.

I recommend: The Knowledge Management Resource Center features information on knowledge management case studies and success stories, including studies from well-known organizations like Frito-Lay and Tufts University School of Medicine. Visit their bookstore to build a knowledge management library for your business. Step Two Designs features vendor-neutral case studies on its site. sorted by business category.

Identify knowledge management issues and challenges through case studies

Cases in knowledge management are the next best thing to witnessing what it takes to successfully adopt a knowledge management system. A knowledge management case study takes a comprehensive look at the process, not just the positive final outcome. By reading about the challenges other companies encountered, or the mistakes they made, you can prevent the pitfalls they experienced. Conversely, by reading about how they solved these same challenges, you can put this insight to work at your company.

I recommend: Macroinnovation Associates features case studies and white papers on knowledge management on its website, which form the basis of their knowledge management workshops and consulting services. Check out the knowledge management resources and links section at KMCI's website and then attend one of their workshops to learn how to apply the concepts you discover in case studies.

Research how knowledge management applies to your industry through cases in knowledge management

Knowledge management cases give you an inside look not just at the general principles of knowledge management, but how they apply to specific industries. At knowledge management websites, you can find studies covering everything from the oil and gas industry to healthcare. This industry-specific information can help you make a more informed choice about if knowledge management is right for your company, and how it might impact your specific business.

I recommend: Providers Edge features case studies for major companies like Whirlpool and Xerox. Check out their links to knowledge management events for opportunities to discuss case studies and new practices with others in your business sector. CIO Insight features business management case studies, including information about knowledge management case studies, on its site.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Read as wide a variety of knowledge management studies as you can. In addition to those that apply to your specific type of business, seek out studies that cover other industries or issues; this will give you a broader understanding of knowledge management practices.

Case studies on knowledge management for beginners focuses on the use of knowledge for profit and performance. If you’re new to this method, look for knowledge detail in four primary activity areas: knowledge creation, retention, transfer and utilization. Cases in knowledge management are an essential resource to gain insight about the practicality of cooperative learning.

Knowledge management case studies are a tool that facilitates knowledge sharing. Documenting organizational efforts to transition into new knowledge management systems promotes role modeling and can eliminate unnecessary failed practices. The process of reviewing case studies increases critical skills and practice evaluating how knowledge management is applied. Experts in the area of knowledge management have done extensive work providing a range of examples and systems to model. Consider the following when searching for cases in knowledge management:

1. Tailor the search criteria on case studies on knowledge management.

2. Observe knowledge management studies that successfully achieve information retention and utilization.

3. Use professional sources to collect information on knowledge management case studies.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Obtain knowledge management cases on familiar companies or issues

Typically, it's easier to access information about knowledge management studies from well-known companies. For the novice, having familiarity with some basic knowledge of the company can help in the initial recognition of knowledge systems and issues in each case study.

I recommend: CIO is a publication of the International Data Group network IDG, a leading media research company that provides an introductory case study in knowledge management for review. David Skyrme Associates provides an article with an example of core issues used in knowledge management cases of familiar companies and also offers a glossary of terms, workshops and access to publications crucial to beginners studying case studies on knowledge management.

Practice identifying the core objectives in a case study in knowledge management

The process of discovering the importance of how knowledge management works and what constitutes as key facts is valuable in recognizing core objectives. Knowledge management concerns are centered around implicit, explicit and tacit knowledge.

I recommend: Provider's Edge lists case studies according to best practices and industry specific tasks. American Productivity and Quality Center provides business management case studies free to its members or for a fee for non-members. There's additional knowledge management training resources and materials available for self-directed studies or to reinforce acquired skills.

Seek professional assistance to learn knowledge management case analysis

Whether its a structured program or a flexible training program, knowledge management experts offer professional training in knowledge management issues. Consider attending a workshop or webinars to hone practical skills in evaluating case studies in knowledge management. There are certification programs available and college credits for degree programs. Many professional service organizations offer books and customized training materials to strengthen knowledge management skills.

I recommend: Learning Tree has an introduction workshop that utilizes interactive case studies in knowledge management for beginners. Knowledge Management Consortium International offers distance learning web and teleconferencing workshops on the specifics of knowledge management case studies.