Application of Cloud Computing in Innovative Knowledge Management Systems

The practice of Knowledge Management (KM) started more than two decades ago and its importance was realized by the leading organizations. It is now considered as an integral component of any business organization. Globalization has played a significant role in how business is conducted and thus the need of innovative KM grew. The emergence of Information and Computer Technologies (ICT) made it possible to put innovative ideas into practice in many areas including KM. This paper discusses the trends in knowledge management and how new emerging technologies have impacted the way knowledge is managed. One of the most prominent technologies within the ICT has been the emergence of Cloud Computing that has significantly impacted the way IT services are provisioned. With its key characteristics, like on-demand self-service, IT resource pooling, rapid elasticity, payas-you-go subscription model and reduced IT costs, it has encouraged various organizations to amend their business strategies. The small and medium scale organizations can now avail hosted services for major IT activities including KM through Cloud Computing, which was beyond their budget before the advent of Cloud Computing. The cloud environment application will be discussed in detail with respect to the knowledge management strategies and their combined adaptability to cater to future needs in this area.