Title: Improving competitive intelligence for knowledge management systems

Authors: Kevin R. Parker, Philip S. Nitse

Addresses: Department of Computer Information Systems, College of Business, Idaho State University, Campus Box 8020, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA. ' Department of Marketing, College of Business, Idaho State University Campus Box 8020, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA

Abstract: Knowledge management encompasses the entire intelligence cycle from planning to reporting. One aspect that is often overlooked or minimised is the inclusion of competitive intelligence. This paper proposes a new concept to fine-tune the process of electronically gathering competitive intelligence – a key activity in knowledge management systems. Most tools are nondiscriminatory in information gathering, and a structured approach is needed to assist managers at all organisational levels in the needs identification process. The proposed multiclass interest profile provides the capability of expanding the coverage of critical intelligence areas to reflect the assorted topics that make up an organisation|s information needs. Each component is customisable to make the information that is gathered pertinent to the organisation, and supporting features such as profile expansion and fine-tuning are also incorporated.

Keywords: business intelligence; competitive intelligence; knowledge management; information gathering; information needs; critical intelligence needs; key intelligence topics.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIEM.2005.007229

International Journal of Internet and Enterprise Management, 2005 Vol.3 No.1, pp.24 - 45

Published online: 25 Jun 2005 *

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