 Combination: a process whereby explicit knowledge is 

![0_image_0.png](0_image_0.png)

transformed to explicit knowledge. For instance, a document can be indexed to facilitate its retrieval. The words used to index such document can be considered as explicit knowledge on the document. Combination occurs in EI context during the generation of indicators from the collected relevant information.

Table 1 summarizes the four conversion processes and as well states instances in EI process through which the conversion takes place. Generated knowledge through these processes should be managed with the aim of facilitating its reuse [11]. Since we aim at capitalization of knowledge from collaborating actors, thus, our interest is in the socialization and externalization processes.

![0_image_1.png](0_image_1.png)

Process Instances of Knowledge

Socialization Collaboration for 

| Transition in EI          | Conversion                   |
|---------------------------|------------------------------|
| understanding             | decision                     |
| problem (DP)              | Tacit Tacit Tacit Explicit |
| of DP                     | Explicit Tacit              |
| information               | Explicit Explicit           |
| from relevant information |                              |

C. *Collaborative Knowledge Management* Knowledge Management (KM) is referred to as a global process in an enterprise which includes all the processes that allow capitalization and sharing of the evolution of knowledge resources (capital) of the firm [7]. Knowledge cannot be dissociated from the context in which it is produced. The individuals or group of individuals (knowledge producers) and their associated socio-cultural environment constitute the context of knowledge production. Hence, KM considers organizational culture in its implementation. It enables people of common vision and culture to share their knowledge, learn from one another and to innovate by working effectively. KM therefore is collaborative in nature. 

There are other factors apart from culture which should be inculcated in KM implementation in organizations. These factors are organizational goals, technology and legal protection of Knowledge Resources (KR) [12], [13], [14]. Organization can benefit from KM approach if they define their goals and organizational ethics, modus operandi, and personnel"s communication forum, including legal measure for protection of knowledge. The technology issue has to do with the implementation of KM system. This requires that a knowledge repository be developed.

KR to be capitalized is stored in a repository commonly called "corporate memory (CM) or organizational memory" 
[14]. CM refers to a structured set of KR related to a firm"s experience in a given domain. It is essential to identify the goal of KM in order to determine the required kind of CM that would "support the integration of resources and know-how in the enterprise and the co-operation by effective communication and active documentation" [15]. The firm"s KR could be formalized and modeled in a CM for re-use and update by designated actors. A successful assimilation of technology [16] into KM yields software solution such as, intelligent documentary system, knowledge-base, case-based system, web-based system or a multi-agent system. KM systems enable firms that develop and leverage KR to achieve greater success than firms who are more dependent on tangible resources [17]. Some benefits of KM are listed below.

 preservation of KR from actors and organizational process; harmonization of firm"s explicit and tacit knowledge; reuse of past project experience or lessons; and sharing of knowledge to facilitate learning and communication amongst organizational personnel.
Techniques of capitalization of KR handle basic required processes such as knowledge acquisition, representation or modeling and exploitation. Knowledge can be elicited and acquired from actors or domain experts through interviews and/or from relevant technical documents. According to [18], 
KM method involves four stages, namely:
 Knowledge Generation that is, knowledge creation and acquisition.

 Knowledge Codification that is, internalization or storing of knowledge.

 Knowledge Transfer or sharing.

3