Data
represents the raw facts without meaning; information
is what is obtained when data is organized in a meaningful context, while knowledge is characterized as the
meaningfully organized accumulation of information (Zack,
1999). Nonaka (1994) points out that there are two different
types of knowledge in an organization: explicit and tacit
knowledge. Explicit knowledge is formal and systemic,
while tacit knowledge is highly personal and difficult to
formalize. These two types of knowledge are both essential
to the organization and must be captured and shared for
others to benefit. Thus, knowledge in the organization
should be managed properly and carefully. A successful KM
will obviously provide sustainable competitive advantage.
Various potential benefits for KM have been listed in
(Giannetto & Wheeler, 2002).