Optimization of knowledge management processes through benchmarking in organizations in Poland

Today, knowledge as a strategic resource and its competent management are becoming increasingly important for the competitiveness of organizations. According to process approach to knowledge management (KM) the success of KM derives from the effectiveness of individual KM processes. One of the methods to increasing effectiveness of knowledge management is to optimize its processes by benchmarking and this issue is the subject of presented article. The paper describes knowledge management processes and their specificity as well as benchmarking as a method for their optimization. In the later parts of the paper presented is the path leading from the vision and goals of an organization, via a decision to optimize KM processes by benchmarking and finally the framework of knowledge management processes benchmarking. The final part presents results of a survey conducted among Polish organizations on issues related to benchmarking of knowledge management processes.