From knowledge theory to management practice: towards an integrated approach

This paper critically contrasts the three main schools of thought on knowle dge - namely, those that respectively conceptualize knowledge as situated i n mind, process, and object - and assesses the resulting implications for k nowledge management (KM), Against the background of the existing diversity of definitions of KM an integrated and holistic view of the KM value chain is put forward. Within this theoretical framework five main research stream s (culture, knowledge location, awareness, evaluation, and absorption) are identified with a view to devising a practical concept of KM applicable in a business context. With a focus on knowledge flow and detailed approaches to potential solutions, conflicts and compatibilities between existing busi ness strategies and KM are examined. A conceptual model is devised to offer a holistic integration of the theoretical and practical themes in order to serve as a framework for developing a future research agenda for the devel opment of theoretically grounded, yet practical, KM business tools and appl ications. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.