Knowledge management tools for SMES

Abstract

This chapter presents selected Knowledge Management (KM) toolkits and individual tools that have been developed to provide structured ways of acquiring, creating, sharing, using and protecting knowledge resources. Endowed with scarce resources small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) have to manage tacit and explicit knowledge efficiently to survive and grow in a rapidly changing business environment. Managing knowledge is a prerequisite to developing dynamic capabilities. While it is widely accepted that knowledge is a key factor for success, companies need tools and routines to manage their knowledge assets adequately in practice. The 12-Point-Programme at the end of the chapter provides guidance on how to develop KM practices for enhancing competitiveness in turbulent situations.