Abstract:

In the fast changing business environment, knowledge has become the pillar of every organisation in creating sustainable competitiveness. The goal of Knowledge Management (KM) and Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) is to assist organisations to act intelligently in promoting continuity, success and to make an organisation realise the best value of its knowledge assets. It is also for maximising an organisation’s effectiveness and competitive advantage. This study sought to investigate factors affecting the implementation of Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) at Transnet Pipelines (TPL) in Durban, challenges faced during the process as well as the strategies that can be put into place to improve the implementation of knowledge management systems at TPL. This qualitative study involved conducting telephonic semi structured interviews with ten participants. Results were analysed using thematic analysis.

The analysis of the findings identified challenges at TPL such as lack of clearly defined KM strategy, poor management communication and engagement with the organisation’s staff members, lack of awareness and knowledge about KMS and lack of skills and training in the KM and KMS discipline. A few respondents are confident in TPL’s ability to implement KMS and there is evidence that work is in progress to improve processes for the successful implementation of KMS.

The following high level recommendations are suggested to improve the successful implementation of KMS at TPL: Develop KM strategy; Improve Communications and Awareness of KM and KMS, develop organisational culture that supports KM and KMS initiatives, improve top management support, provide training and financial support. Furthermore, TPL need to develop a change management strategy to ensure smooth transition and implementation. Most importantly, top management must drive the KM initiative and practice visible leadership.

Keywords:

Knowledge Management, Knowledge Management Systems, Transnet Pipelines, Management Strategy, Organisational Culture.