Knowledge Management Toolkit
Br Karen Giannetto and Anne Wheeler
Gower Publishing Limited
ISBN 0566 08293 4
Price £99.00

The Knowledge Management Toolkit provides is both easy to read and easy to understand. The Toolkit, which is split into three separate parts, is supplied in a loose-leaf folder and all 113 pages can be photocopied.

Part one highlights the basics of knowledge management, explaining what it is, why it is important and how it can have a positive impact on organisations.

Part two addresses the fact that any knowledge management process will require changes within an organisation to both its culture and systems. The typical issues that will arise are explored. Advice is given on producing a business case and on recommended methods for collating data about the location of knowledge within an organisation.

Part three contains various checklists, activities and sessions that look at the audit process, the project plan, communication and training.

I found the Toolkit an interesting read. Working in an organisation where knowledge is one of our main ‘products’, I thought the Toolkit could be particularly relevant. I was certainly left with a better understanding of the complexity of the process. The ability to photocopy the entire publication would help ensure that managers were also aware of the complex issues involved.

I am not sure having read through the Toolkit that I would feel confident in actually carrying out a Knowledge Management exercise. The Toolkit ensures that you are aware of all the steps required, but I was left with the feeling that carrying out a knowledge management exercise wouldn’t be all that easy!

Matthew Simkin

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