Bill Kaplan, founder of Working KnowledgeCSP, discusses the definition and evolution of knowledge management. He highlights the power of verbs in enabling continuous improvement in organizations. Kaplan shares his personal story of starting in knowledge management and offers advice for those interested in the field. He explores the advancements in knowledge management, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach and integrating it into workflow.
Knowledge Management encompasses more than just knowledge sharing, now including data science, AI, records management, and library science.
Knowledge consists of information (explicit) and experience (tacit), and leveraging both enhances an organization's ability to adapt and operate faster than change.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Knowledge Management
Knowledge Management (KM) has evolved over time and encompasses more than just knowledge sharing and collaboration. It now includes data science, artificial intelligence, records management, and library science. KM is about understanding how knowledge is used and flows within an organization. It is the ability to capture, adapt, transfer, and reuse knowledge to continuously improve an organization's performance.
The Definition of Knowledge and its Forms
Knowledge consists of two components - information and experience. Information is codified and explicit, such as books and documents, while experience is tacit knowledge, the insight and understanding gained through practice. Organizations that leverage both information and experience are better able to adapt and operate faster than the speed of change. Knowledge can take various forms and exist in different states within an organization.
Getting Started and Advancing in Knowledge Management
To get started in KM, it is essential to gain an understanding of the discipline through research and reading. Finding a supportive organization and mentor is crucial for learning the fundamentals and evolving in the field. While certification is valuable, experience and continuous learning are key to becoming an expert. The integration of technology in KM enhances the capture, accessibility, and transfer of knowledge, but the soft skills of engaging people and fostering a culture of knowledge sharing remain important. Organizations should define the desired outcomes of their KM investments and align KM strategies with overall organizational goals for long-term success.
In this episode of the Knowledge Cast, EK CEO Zach Wahl speaks with Bill Kaplan, the founder of Working KnowledgeCSP.
Bill Kaplan is recognized as one of the early thought leaders and knowledge management consultants in the application of Knowledge Management (KM) in the government sector and a long time practitioner in the private sector. Bill Kaplan has been consulting on the leadership and practical application of Knowledge Management as a business discipline to address business operations and workforce performance challenges since the 1990s.
Note: The views expressed by guests are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of their organization.