This thesis focusses on the development of a Knowledge Management system for a multi-office engineering design consultancy. It describes the identification and realisation of user and business requirements in a new Knowledge Management system together with approaches for the implementation and evaluation of a Knowledge Management system. Transferable lessons in the form of Best Practice guidelines are then identified. The thesis begins with a review of the current and recent literature relating

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... to the field of Knowledge Management and Knowledge Management systems. It also explores literature relating to communication, design, implementation and evaluation. Following the literature review the methodology chapter outlines the seven stages of the project and desired outcome from each stage. A mixture of data collection methods including questionnaires, semi-structured interviews and informal discussion were employed to gain an understanding of the current Knowledge Management practices and procedures in the engineering design consultancy. A process for the capture and understanding of Knowledge Management requirements is also identified. Chapter 5 then addresses how these requirements can be translated into specifications for a Knowledge Management system. Specifications and matrixes were employed to select an appropriate software platform for the development of the Knowledge Management system which is introduced in Chapter 7. Following the development of the Knowledge Management its implementation and evaluation across the organisation is described. Finally recommendations and lessons learned for the design, development, implementation, embedding and evaluation of a Knowledge Management system are provided. These are presented in the form of best practice guidelines which may be transferable to other organisations including SME's. P a g e | 76 Implementation and Evaluation This chapter addresses the implementation and evaluation of the 'HKnowledge'. It will address objectives 7 and 8 to evaluate and access the impact of the Knowledge Management system. Chapter 8 will also begin to produce guidelines for best practice for the development and implementation of a Knowledge Management system. O7. Evaluate and assess the impact of the Knowledge Management system. O8. Produce guidelines of best practice for the development and implementation process for a Knowledge Management system.