Case Studies on Knowledge Management Basics

How to find and use knowledge management cases to improve your business
By Lesley Graybeal 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.

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.
Try:  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.
Try:  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.
Try:  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.

• 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.