Companies Implement a Knowledge Management System? The

¶ … companies implement a knowledge management system? The way that Nestle implemented a knowledge management system was to create a platform that everyone had access to. This was accomplished by working in conjunction with SAP. These changes started out by focusing on select divisions and introducing them to all employees. The basic idea was that they could begin using the various applications on a regular basis to increase communication and collaboration. At first, this project did have a number of positive benefits.

However, there were a series of different bugs that had to be worked out. This led to the redesign of the system and improvements within the different application. Once this took place, is when Nestle was able to have effective communication and collaboration. ("On Demand Business," 2005) As far as Pella is concerned, they worked in association with Oracle to create a knowledge management system that was easily accessible and to understand. The way that this was implemented was to have various managers working in conjunction with different employees.

The basic idea was to have them play a major role in creating a solution that would address the needs of all staff members. To achieve these objectives the program was uploaded in a series of phases. This allowed staff members to be able to learn the new applications and become proficient with them prior to the next one being uploaded. Once everything was finished, this solution allowed executives to be able to improve upon: communication, customer service and reduce lead times.

("Pella Controls Costs," 2005) In the case of Volkswagen, they are using a system that called the On Demand Workplace. This is an all in one solution that is used to improve communication between the various divisions of the company and suppliers. The basic idea behind this approach is that this all inclusive system will help to address a host of issues in real time. Once this takes place it reduces confusion surrounding the distribution of: supplies, parts and the final product.

To implement this solution, the company used an approach of having the staff members, managers and employees of their suppliers work together to create a workable protocol that all organizations could use. (Holt, 2005) What are the differences in how each of these companies implemented knowledge management? The biggest differences are in the overall approach that was taken by the company to deal with these issues. In the case of Nestle, they focused on introducing the new protocol based upon having one division test and successfully utilize the various applications.

This allowed them to make changes and improve upon the current system they were using. ("On Demand Business," 2005) While Pella, introduced these programs through: having managers and employees working tougher in creating a universal application. This was implemented in a series of different stages. Once this occurred it allowed employees to understand and become familiar with specific applications. This is different from the approach taken by Nestle, as they are focused on implementing the entire solution in one department. ("Pella Controls Costs," 2005).