Improving organizational alignment by enhancing strategic thinking

Purpose – The article argues for increased use of knowledge management as a possible method for improving the alignment of organizations with the external environment. Design/methodology/approach – It is readily acknowledged that the external environment for organizations is characterized as fast-paced. As such, to remain successful, organizations must endeavor to remain aware of changes in the external environment and make timely adjustments to internal operations that will keep the organization properly aligned with the environment. Findings – Strategic thinking, bolstered by effective knowledge management, is one approach organizational leaders can consider in their quest to remain properly aligned with perpetual changes in the external environment. Practical implications – Employees represent a significant source of information and knowledge within organizations. Leveraging this information through knowledge management may enhance the strategic thinking within organizations, translating into practices that will help the organization remain properly aligned with the external environment. Originality/value – The topic of knowledge management is certainly not new. However, emphasizing knowledge management in the context of organizational alignment provides organizational leaders with an additional strategy that has considerable practical value.