Knowledge management in tourism – the application of Grant's knowledge management model to Austrian tourism organizations

Abstract

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the pertinent issues of knowledge management in tourism using the example of tourism organizations in Austria.Design/methodology/approachThe paper undertakes a review of the relevant literature before applying Grant's model of knowledge management to Austrian tourism organizations. Data are gathered by means of a standardized online questionnaire.FindingsThe results of the study show that the majority of Austrian tourism organizations have implemented knowledge management according to Grant's model. However, there is potential for development and further improvement.Practical implicationsThe implications for knowledge management in tourism organizations are provided in terms of general prerequisites for knowledge management as well as practical implications and suggestions relating to the identification, measurement, storage, sharing and integration of knowledge.Originality/valueThe use of knowledge has long been of interest to academics and practitioners, but research on it has been under‐developed in tourism. Despite the increasing conceptual studies on knowledge management in tourism in the last few years, this research uses a knowledge management model to assess the current status of knowledge management in Austrian tourism organizations and provides practical implications.