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Knowledge Management Systems means organizing and integrating the sources and flows of information within your business or department so that they result in answers. It may seem strange to put it in this fashion, but the distinction is critical and not subtle. The recent past in management science has viewed this process as quite sufficiently controlling the flows of information. Management Information Systems (MIS), the key controlling concept, has effectively buried itself in its own success. MIS has produced too much information to allow managers to understand what it all represents. Managers in the past gathered data, analyzed it, and then made decisions about the future. Management control systems is all about monitoring these plans, and making small adjustments as needed to stay on track. The problem today is not only the overwhelming flood of data and information, but the rate of change as well.

The real questions then are how to effectively segregate out the data and information that you need to understand and control your operation, and to be able to position yourself and your business unit to respond to change.

This module teaches a six-step process that you can use in your business. Applying these techniques will help you to avoid the information overload problems created by technology and an overzealous staff. In addition, you will build the critical knowledge that will enable you to effectively respond to the critical issues of a constantly and rapidly changing business environment. Avoid problems by adequate planning and exploit opportunities by recognizing them when they arise - all COMMON SENSE.