What is the primary function of a knowledge management system (KMS)?

The primary function of a knowledge management system (KMS) is to support the dissemination of knowledge throughout an organization. A KMS captures, stores, and shares knowledge to ensure that all employees have access to valuable information and insights. This facilitates better decision-making, encourages collaboration, and enhances organizational learning, making a company more agile and informed.

In contrast to creating new knowledge assets, which is a more limited scope, the focus of a KMS is on sharing existing knowledge across various departments and teams within an organization. While managing financial records is related to financial information systems, it does not fall within the primary scope of a KMS. Similarly, training employees is an important function but is often part of the broader context of utilizing knowledge management rather than the direct function of a KMS itself. The main goal of a KMS is to ensure that knowledge is easily accessible and can be leveraged to improve performance and innovation throughout the organization.