Knowledge management is a broad field and there are correspondingly many different definitions. This article deals with business process-oriented knowledge management. Within a company, knowledge management serves to coordinate and optimize the internal flow of knowledge. Its task is to establish an integrated company-wide knowledge organization that ensures efficient knowledge processing and improves the methodical handling of knowledge in company processes.
Methods of knowledge management in companies
An important part of knowledge management is supporting internal communication and collaboration. Companies use intranet portals for this purpose, for example. This is a secure database that bundles internal company information. Employees can access and update the information and communication system at any time.
In this way, the portals ensure a smooth flow of knowledge within the respective company. Another sub-area of knowledge management is document management. Its task is to assign incoming documents and documents generated within the company to the respective customers, orders or projects. Thanks to targeted management, it is easier to find and process the required information and documents.
ERP systems as support for knowledge management
In the past, knowledge management was only used in large companies. Nowadays, more and more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are also introducing it. ERP systems are a particularly helpful tool for them. Modern ERP systems with an integrative approach not only cover business and logistical company processes, but also the area of knowledge management.
You can map a large part of your employees’ specialist and process knowledge in your software. By making the knowledge and information available on a standardized, user-friendly platform, the ERP solution effectively supports users and the company in document management, archiving and research.
Practical search functions allow the user to call up a current customer history or complete order tracking at any time, for example. This allows employees to work faster and more effectively. This in turn increases the competitiveness of the entire company.
