The Beginner’s Guide to Knowledge Management for Federal Contractors

In government contracting, information is power—but only if it’s accessible, accurate, and shared across your team. That’s where knowledge management (KM) comes in. 

A strong KM system transforms your company’s know-how—from proposal templates to project lessons learned—into a reusable advantage that saves time, reduces errors, and strengthens future bids. 

Step 1: Understand What Knowledge Management Is (and Isn’t) 

• It’s not just storing files—it’s about capturing organizational intelligence. 

• It combines technology (like a knowledge management system) with people and processes. 

• KM ensures expertise doesn’t walk out the door when employees leave. 

Step 2: Identify Your “Critical Knowledge” Areas 

• Proposal templates and pricing models 

• Client preferences and past performance notes 

• Regulatory and compliance data 

• Lessons learned from project execution 

These are your institutional assets—treat them like intellectual property. 

Step 3: Choose the Right Knowledge Management System 

Look for systems that integrate with your existing tools (SharePoint, Teams, or Confluence).  Key features should include: 

• Searchable database or knowledge base system 

• User permissions and version control 

• Integration with document storage and communication platforms 

Step 4: Build a Sharing Culture 

Tools only work if people use them. 

• Encourage employees to upload templates, checklists, and best practices. 

• Recognize contributions that improve collective knowledge. 

• Appoint a “Knowledge Champion” to oversee KM upkeep. 

Step 5: Link Knowledge to Performance 

• Use your KM system to inform proposal writing, project planning, and BD strategies. 

• Track which resources get reused most often to refine your knowledge base. 

• The result: faster proposals, consistent quality, and higher P-win rates. 

Pro Tip: 

Valkyrie Solutions helps federal contractors design and implement knowledge management systems that capture lessons learned and convert them into growth. Whether you’re just starting or modernizing, we’ll help your knowledge work for you.