Abstract

Knowledge increasingly has become a vital resource. Within our communities, institutions, and organizations, practical insights are needed for optimizing its use. Knowledge management needs to become an object of study. This article deals with two issues. First, using both knowledge systems concepts and tools, and insights gained from comparative research, it explores the vital qualities of agricultural knowledge systems. These qualities, like the multiplicity and relative autonomy of the actors, the level of integration reached through linkage mechanisms, and the coordination needed to overcome default situations, might provide leverage points for effective knowledge management. Second, it probes into a more specific definition of the tasks and areas of attention of the knowledge manager. Knowledge management can focus on various levels of a system (e.g., the individual, organizational, or system level) and can make use of a variety of instruments and skills