Knowledge Management (KM) has become a key factor in the performance of organizations. The literature shows results of the application of KM mainly in big companies, although there are a few studies that target Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Based on the literature related to the implementation of KM strategies in SMEs, there is a gap in understanding how these strategies allow improvements in the development process of the areas involved in them. The objective of this study is to illustrate the application of a strategy of KM in SMEs that contributes to the improvement of organizational processes while responding to favor internal organization changes. The case study approach is used to develop and implement a methodology for implementing a Knowledge Management Strategy (KMS) in a medium enterprise located in the northwest of Mexico. To complete this, it was necessary within the methodology to determine the area to develop and implement the strategy of KM, having chosen marketing area as the area of interest, based on elements that were considered key to the company. The main results obtained were the identification of key knowledge, where it is and who possesses it; the detailed specification of process activities and the structure of existing knowledge and its conservation; and a decrease in the time to find the information and/or knowledge required for the development of processes in the area of marketing.

The organizations are in a highly competitive environment, where the difference is marked by the use of the knowledge of its members. Therefore, companies feel the need to handle correctly this asset in order to meet the changing needs. One challenge that is required for enterprises to continue to remain active is to conduct strategic elements to the creation of competitive advantage through Knowledge Management (KM) and simultaneously achieve immersed, enhanced knowledge in individuals and the organization in order that it is at the disposal of others. In this sense, this project aims to develop and implement a Knowledge Management Strategy (KMS) to identify, preserve and use the knowledge of the processes of the marketing area in order to apply it and create a scheme as a response to the new changes.

This paper presents a framework that explains the concepts related to this work; subsequently, the proposed methodology is shown through revised elements where it is given how to develop and deploy it. To validate the methodology, a case study is developed in a trading company located in northwestern Mexico that explains each of the stages and the results obtained. Finally, the conclusion is presented.

Knowledge Management Journal, Knowledge Management (KM), Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Knowledge Management Strategy (KMS), Methodology, Development, Implementation, Knowledge Management Strategy, Mexican SME Trading Company.