Managing Knowledge Successfully

Information professionals in all sectors have a central role to play in pioneering the knowledge economy of the 21st century. The creation and acquisition of information and the design of formal and informal channels for the distribution and storage of this information are traditional information roles, but the pressures to react to a constantly changing environment and apply knowledge management throughout an organization present challenges for the LIS professional. A successful information audit is the first step in implementing a knowledge management policy based on a thorough understanding of the information flow through the organization, the needs of users and the information base of the organization. This guide provides clear advice on how to approach this process.
Step-by-step guidance and real-life case studies guide the practitioner through a range of topics, including: the definition of an information audit; reasons to perform an information audit; who should be involved; how to perform an information audit - identifying needs and existing information sources; how to perform an information audit - assessing, analyzing and interpreting; techniques; what to do with the outcomes of an audit; and monitoring action plans. This should be a useful deskbook for information professionals at all levels charged with the task of conducting an information audit and developing a coherent knowledge policy for their organization.