Evaluation of Knowledge Management: A Review and Agenda for Future Research

Abstract

Evaluation methods are essential for the advancement of research and practice in an area. In knowledge management (KM), the process of measurement, evaluation, and development of metrics is made complex by the intangible nature of the knowledge asset. Further, the lack of standards for KM business metrics and the relative infancy of research on KM evaluation point to a need for research in this area. This chapter reviews KM evaluation methods for research and practice and identifies areas in which there is a gap in our understanding. It classifies existing research based on the units of evaluation such as user of knowledge management system (KMS), KMS, project, KM process, and organization as a whole. The importance of considering differences across industries in assessing KM is also discussed. The chapter concludes by suggesting avenues for future research in KM and KMS evaluation based on the gaps identified.