Understanding the drivers, enablers, and performance of knowledge management in public organizations

Abstract

Public organizations are increasingly investing in knowledge management (KM) initiatives. However, most KM concepts, practices, and tools have mainly been developed and studied in the private sector and there is a lack of understanding of KM in public organizations. This paper addresses the gap by discussing the differences between public and private organizations in their KM endeavors. Specifically, KM drivers in the context of public organizations are first identified. Salient KM enablers and how they may differentially affect the success of KM initiatives in public and private organizations are then discussed. Finally, tools for assessing KM performance in public organizations are suggested, in view of their unique organizational objectives.