Enterprise-wide knowledge audit conducted for a professional service firm

M.A.This research paper sets out to explore the possibility that a knowledge audit methodology could be successfully implemented within a professional services enterprise in order to establish what core knowledge content requirements exist. By identifying this core knowledge, the researcher asserts that sales and professional staff should be enabled to enhance their ability to win business and improve the process of client service delivery. Using the knowledge economy as a backdrop, the researcher examines the impact this has had on the knowledge and information needs of the enterprise. The value of purely technology-based solutions to resolve the knowledge deficit within an enterprise is examined following on from which, the process of implementing a knowledge audit is discussed. Thereafter, the proposed knowledge audit methodology is developed and subsequently applied at an enterprise-wide level for a large professional services enterprise. The researcher explores the business case for implementing a knowledge management initiative. An analysis is then made of the results gathered from the knowledge audit. The existing infrastructure and resources are evaluated against any resultant knowledge management requirements. This is followed by an assessment of the current status of knowledge management within the enterprise. The researcher then provides a framework for the management of content that was identified during the knowledge audit. The importance of processes and policies in supporting the management of identified content is emphasised. This is followed by an assessment of any suitable opportunities for “quick win” projects. The researcher then examines whether the key research objectives were achieved. In closing, some additional suggestions are made regarding the future of the initiative and potential steps that might be taken to further entrench KM within the enterprise