Arno Boersma

Manager, UNDP Centre of Excellence for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States, Aruba

I was hesitant to contribute, because let’s face it, who is going to read this? Ok, you will. But in the world of development, you’re unfortunately the exception. Reports often remain unread, as they are ineffective, supply-driven knowledge channels. But since you’re here, I’ll share my one personal idea for knowledge management for development: less talk, more action. To quote Elvis: ‘A little less conversation, a little more action.’ A more credible KM source? Einstein: ‘The only source of knowledge is experience.’

Let’s move from abstraction to action, from reports to results, and from intentions to impact. I know, easier said than done. But in all that we as knowledge professionals do, let’s ensure there is a link between our knowledge work and impact. And ask ourselves: how does this knowledge activity benefit development? We can start by turning the many ideas from these personal statements relating to the Agenda Knowledge for Development into action. I’ve been inspired by them and will gladly help to do so.