Performing a knowledge audit within a South African chemical manufacturer : a case study

Abstract

Despite the increased efforts of organisations to implement knowledge management (KM) initiatives, many fail. Performing a knowledge audit before embarking on KM activities increases the probability of success. In this interpretive case study, the authors applied a modified version of the knowledge audit methodology developed by Perez-Soltero et al. to a South African (SA) veterinary medicine, fine chemical, and pharmaceutical manufacturer. The authors engaged members of the organisation in focus group sessions and individual interviews to identify knowledge assets related to core processes within the organisation. They used the data from the focus groups and individual interviews to identify and articulate many of the knowledge assets at the core of the organisation's current success. In addition, the process of conducting a knowledge audit and making the steps explicit while adjusting for context, may inform researchers and practitioners in terms of knowledge audit approach.