NZ Knowledge Management Network

Why should we have a knowledge management network in New Zealand?

We are now in the Knowledge Age where knowledge is becoming an increasingly important asset to nations, organisations and individuals. Whether we can compete successfully or even just survive in the Knowledge Age depends on how well we master the art of managing the currency of the Knowledge Age – knowledge.

New Zealand and the Knowledge Economy

New Zealand is well placed in the world to contribute to and benefit from the Knowledge Economy. With a well-educated workforce mostly speaking the international business language of English as their first language, New Zealand is in a good position to export knowledge intensive products and services. The relatively lower costs of living as compared to most developed economies also gives New Zealand a competitive advantage as it is able to offer knowledge intensive products and services at an economical price.

Besides the advantages that New Zealand possesses as mentioned above, its ability to make the best use of the opportunities in the Knowledge Economy also depends on how well it manages its knowledge assets. Good knowledge management will equip New Zealand government agencies, businesses and individuals with effective and fast access to the most accurate, complete, relevant and up to date knowledge sources – allowing them to offer high quality knowledge intensive products and services.

The Emerging Field of Knowledge Management

In the fast changing global and business environment, knowledge will soon become obsolete unless we know how to constantly update our existing knowledge and seek new knowledge. This is especially true in an emerging field like knowledge management – where new ideas and discoveries come up everyday if not every minute.

It is imperative for New Zealand to have a network for those interested in knowledge management to share, discuss and debate so as to keep abreast of the latest developments in this area. Knowledge management associations, societies and communities of practice have been formed in places like Europe, Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan. Establishing such a network also keeps New Zealand in line with the international trend and helps foster mutually beneficial relationships with these overseas bodies.