6. Technology

The Introduction to this TOP mentions that there are some conflicting perceptions surrounding the subject of KM, some of them arising from the fact that people become involved with KM - and learn about it – from different perspectives, according to how it applies to their particular work.

KM can be applied in a variety of ways, each supported by a number of specific technologies. Chapter 6 lists six types of application and includes an illustration, in tabular form - the ‘ KM Spectrum’ (by Binney, 2001) – relating the applications to their specific tools and technologies.

While technology is an enabler in the field of KM, it might also be a barrier when, for example, employees feel they are insufficiently trained or when a technology eliminates face to face contact. The latter is a reminder that, although technology is an enabling factor, it is people that are at the heart of successful KM applications. A concluding note here is that the growing potential of technology will not be exploited unless there is a culture of knowledge sharing.