Knowledge management software

Knowledge management software (KM software) is a subset of content management software, which contains a range of software that specializes in the way information is collected, stored and/or accessed. The concept of knowledge management is based on a range of practices used by an individual, a business, or a large corporation to identify, create, represent and redistribute information for a range of purposes. Software that enables an information practice or range of practices at any part of the processes of information management can be deemed to be called information management software. A subset of information management software that emphasizes an approach to build knowledge out of information that is managed or contained is often called knowledge management software.

KM software in most cases provides a means for individuals, small groups or mid-sized businesses to innovate, build new knowledge in the group, and/or improve customer experience. Knowledge management systems (software) include a range of about 1,500 or more different approaches to collect and contain information to then build knowledge that can be searched through specialised search tools. These include concept building tools and/or visual search tools that present information in a connected manner not originally conceptualised by those collecting or maintaining the information database.

One of the main categories of knowledge management software is groupware, which can be used for knowledge sharing and capture. Groupware is a combination of synchronous, asynchronous and community focused tools. Groupware can be used to exchange knowledge and expertise even when the team members are situated around the world.[1]

  1. ^ de Carvalho, Rodrigo Baroni, and Marta Araújo Tavares Ferreira. "Knowledge Management Software." Encyclopedia of Knowledge Management, edited by David G. Schwartz, Idea Group Reference, 2006, pp. 410-418. Gale Virtual Reference Library, http://link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/CX3467300066/GVRL