Data mining is an advanced analytical technique for uncovering small nuggets of information within vast quantities of data. Data mining actually involves using a variety of analytical techniques to identify patterns, correlations, or trends in massive amounts of data. Artificial intelligence tools can also help draw meaning from data. Expert systems can help businesses with knowledge management by capturing and codifying knowledge that might otherwise be lost due to the absence, retirement, resignation, or death of an acknowledged expert. Neural networks are a different and more flexible form of artificial intelligence useful in knowledge management.
Neural networks attempt to tease out meaningful patterns from vast amounts of data.
They use statistical analysis to recognize relationships and can actually adapt as new information is received - a process called adaptive learning. Neural networks enhance the organization's knowledge base by suggesting solutions to specific problems that are too massive and complex for efficient analysis by human beings. For example, neural nets are used by BankAmerica to evaluate commercial loan applications. American Express uses neural nets to read handwriting on credit card slips while Arco and Texaco use it to locate oil and gas deposits below the earth's surface. Groupware Links People and Information Groupware is another application of information technology that has emerged to support the needs of global organizations and virtual teams.