Objectives of knowledge management

environ-
mental scanning
. This often occurs as an 
ad hoc
process, but if there is no reporting mecha-
nism then some major changes may not be apparent to managers. Environmental analysis is 
required to evaluate information and respond accordingly.
Environmental 
scanning
The process of 
continuously monitoring 
the environment and 
events and responding 
accordingly.
Activity 4.1
Introduction to social, legal and ethical issues
List all the social, legal and ethical issues that the manager of a sell‑ side e‑commerce 
website needs to consider to avoid damaging relationships with users of his or her site 
or which may leave the company facing prosecution. You can base your answer on 
current issues which may concern you, your friends or your family when accessing a 
website.
Answers to activities can be found at 
www.pearsoned.co.uk/chaffey
Figure 4.1
‘Waves of change’ – different timescales for change in the environment
Infrastructure:
road, railways
Government
Commerce
Technology
Social
Pop culture
The natural
environment
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