A problem-solving perspective on knowledge management practices

A wide variety of organizational practices have been proposed to support th e creation, storage and transfer of knowledge, yet it is often unclear how these practices relate to one another in their contribution to organization al performance. This study develops a categorization system for knowledge m anagement practices based on two dimensions: the practices' role in the pro blem-solving process, and the type of problem they address. Analysis of sur vey data supports the proposed framework and uncovers two higher order fact ors that correspond to the concepts of exploration and exploitation. By foc using attention on the importance of problem solving in transforming knowle dge into business value, this research suggests a new way to understand the connection between knowledge management practices and organizational goals . (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.