Knowledge Management and Organisational Learning: An International Development Perspective

This literature review focuses on knowledge management (KM) and organisational learning, particularly in relation to international development. Much has already been written on KM in the commercial and public sectors, and this review aims to identify current knowledge, emerging themes and gaps that will be of special interest to development actors and agencies. The review was undertaken to inform the Overseas Development Institute (ODI)'s Research and Policy in Development (RAPID) programme which aims to promote better use of research in development policy and practice, in order to promote evidence-based and pro-poor policies.

The first part of the review focuses on KM literature from the commercial sector, which tends to regard KM and organisational learning primarily as a tool for improving organisational efficiency. The second part looks at literature from the development sector, where although organisational efficiency is also important, KM can also increase an organisation's ability to respond to the needs of the poor and influence debates and policy processes. The final part of the review identifies gaps in the literature that are of particular importance to agencies working in the international development field.

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