Knowledge management - not rocket science

Purpose – To provide a broad understanding of knowledge management and how to successfully implement knowledge management. Design/methodology/approach – Using a wide range of technical, business and knowledge management-specific sources to explain the value and importance of knowledge management and the relative simplicity of the concept, the paper is divided into sections providing a definition of KM, how KM relates to technology, an overview of double-loop learning, six steps to successful KM (plus one), and successful KM examples. Findings – Provides a thorough overview of KM and its building-blocks, as well as providing examples that incorporate various degrees of technology. Originality/value – This paper provides a unique view of knowledge management success by maintaining a totally agnostic approach and focusing on principles that will provide success regardless of technology or budget.