Building Small Business Networks

This chapter assesses the current research on knowledge management and adds insights from an Australian example. Knowledge management is critical to successful innovation in tourism products. It is an important tool for creating successful regional organizations and ensuring competitive destinations. This chapter explores the barriers to participation in regional knowledge management networks. Topics covered include knowledge management applied in tourism settings, knowledge clusters and regional partnerships, and knowledge transfer processes, including the value of new technologies. A detailed case study of an attempt to build a knowledge network in Australia is described and generic insights noted.