ABSTRACT

Knowledge is increasingly regarded as the only sustainable source for the continuous innovation and competitive advantage of individuals, organizations, and nations in the 21st century, where economies and human-ecology wellbeing are said to be knowledge based and knowledge management is seen as an indispensable means for survival, growth, and betterment. Adopting a pragmatic and holistic perspective, this chapter introduces readers to the theories and practices of knowledge-oriented management in organizations, which are composed of purposeful coping of three differentiated yet related areas: knowledge assets, knowing processes, and knower relations. It suggests that a systems approach promoting synergy among efciency, creativity, and legitimacy will increase opportunities for organizations in the search for competitive advantage and sustainable prosperity. This chapter is a conscious attempt in bridging systems and knowledge sciences with an explicit focus on enhancing organizational management practices.