Title: Knowledge-based approaches in strategic management: a review of the literature

Authors: Konstantinos C. Kostopoulos, Dimitrios A. Brachos, Sophia S. Philippidou, Ioannis N. Katsikis

Addresses: Department of Management Science and Technology, Athens University of Economics and Business, 47 A Evelpidon Street, Athens 11362, Greece. ' Department of Management Science and Technology, Athens University of Economics and Business, 47 A Evelpidon Street, Athens 11362, Greece. ' Department of Management Science and Technology, Athens University of Economics and Business, 47 A Evelpidon Street, Athens 11362, Greece. ' Department of Management Science and Technology, Athens University of Economics and Business, 47 A Evelpidon Street, Athens 11362, Greece

Abstract: Although Knowledge Management (KM) has been acknowledged as the most important resource and capability of an organisation, many academics| standpoints argue upon knowledge distinct characteristics. This paper is a critical review of KM literature and attempts to clarify different knowledge perspectives and offer a holistic picture of one of the most controversial issues to management science. We, first, build our critique on knowledge theory, explaining what knowledge is. Regarding different knowledge perspectives, such as Nonaka|s, Tsoukas| and Blackler|s, we attempt to clarify how knowledge interacts and is affected by their unique views. Second, we review KM theory according to the analysed knowledge perspectives. Finally, we categorise KM theory to three approaches: the cognitive, the community and the network approach, and we consider their impact to organisations.

Keywords: knowledge-based approaches; knowledge theory; KM; knowledge management; strategic management; literature review.

DOI: 10.1504/IJASS.2010.038350

International Journal of Applied Systemic Studies, 2010 Vol.3 No.4, pp.389 - 403

Published online: 31 Jan 2011 *

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