This paper has illustrated how e-Learning techniques and technology can be used to enhance knowledge management in an enterprise and provide the benefits of both. To implement e-learning, each organization must assess its readiness to the following requirements: infrastructure, knowledge editor, organizational culture, employee attitude, computer usage and technology requirements. The challenges of implementing e-learning are reflected in the challenges of implementing knowledge management and include the development of technical infrastructure, improvements in organizational behavior, knowledge of design strategies and economic investments.

Purpose -There is controversy about the role information technology (IT) should play in knowledge management (KM) spanning extremes that either overvalue or undervalue IT's role. This study recognizes the balance required between the two extremes and aims to present a KM process and a three-dimensional model to assist in identifying opportunities in which IT can effectively facilitate KM practices. Design/methodology/approach -Through a synthesis of KM literature the paper developed a KM process that consists of identification of classifications of knowledge and their particular value to an organization, sources of knowledge, and application opportunities. It developed a three-dimensional model consisting of KM life cycle, KM level, and KM objectives to assist in identifying the most effective IT application opportunities. Findings -Current IT infrastructures provide support for the organization, formalization, and distribution of organizational knowledge. However, there are relatively few applications that perform the generation, application, and evolution of organizational knowledge. The paper describes a distributed simulation prototype system that demonstrates the potential ability of IT to perform these important KM activities and contribute to the effective facilitation of KM. Research limitations/implications -This study is by no means exhaustive, but is intended as a starting point to explore opportunities in which IT may be most effective in realizing the goals and objectives of KM. Originality/value -The proposed KM process guides knowledge workers toward a systematic understanding of how to view the use of IT in the most effective way to achieve organizational objectives and goals. The model permits them to assess how they are currently using IT for KM and where they may either leverage their current IT infrastructure or develop focused IT applications to achieve benefits through better use of IT in facilitating knowledge management. The Navy planning system described demonstrates one such application.

Well designed experiments can dramatically improve the statistical accuracy of simula tion output data and facilitate the statistical analysis. In this paper we propose an experimental design strategy for designing robust systems using discrete-event simulation. The proposed strategy is motivated by Genichi Taguchi's strategy for improving product and process quality in manufacturing. Robust systems are systems that not only satisfy performance criteria, but also are not sensitive to uncontrollable environmental conditions or noise in the system's environment. We demonstrate the proposed experimental design strategy with a jobshop example and discuss the potential benefits of employing such a strategy for designing robust systems in general.

A Web portal can support collaborative learning and help individuals and organizations plan for an uncertain future.

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