Extending Knowledge Management to Mobile Workplaces

Knowledge and Knowledge Management (KM) are evolving into an increasingly eminent source of competitive advantage. However,for the time being, the potential of KM is usually limited to stationary workplaces. This excludes a multiplicity of mobile workers, many of them in charge of knowledge-intensive activities.This paper examines the capabilities and limitations of mobile technology usage in order to support KM. After a general overview of KM, the relevant mobile technology is introduced.Subsequently, the theory of mobile added values is employed to analyze the contributions of mobile technology for supporting KM in the different phases of the KM process. Especially the process of knowledge distribution is qualified to be supported through mobile technology.