Knowledge management perceptions in two municipal units

Abstract

Few researchers have studied the perceptions of employees about knowledge management and processes for converting tacit into explicit knowledge within the public service, especially in local government. The purpose of this study is to gain knowledge about, and insight into, employees' perceptions about the factors that contribute to strategies for managing knowledge, knowledge management processes to convert tacit into explicit knowledge, as well as their views regarding the implementation of knowledge management strategies, and their perceptions about the ways in which knowledge management can contribute to organizational effectiveness and efficiency in their workplace. The census approach was used and data was collected using questionnaires which were administered to 80 employees of eThekwini Municipality, of which 66 questionnaires were suitably completed. Results of the article indicate that there exist significant relationships amongst the key variables of the study relating to knowledge management, and that each of the areas of knowledge management studied needs improvement.