Tacit & Explicit Knowledge

Tacit and Explicit Knowledge

Tacit knowledge refers to the understanding that individuals possess through personal experience and context. Unlike explicit knowledge, which can be documented and easily shared, tacit knowledge is often unarticulated and challenging to convey. It is deeply embedded in a person's skills, experiences, and insights, making it subjective and context-specific. This type of knowledge is acquired through practice, observation, and personal reflection, rather than formal instruction.

Understanding Tacit Knowledge

Tacit knowledge is often considered a competitive advantage for organizations because it is difficult to replicate. This unique form of knowledge resides in the minds of employees, making it invaluable to their organizations. For instance, an employee at an oil drilling site might detect a malfunction simply by sensing vibrations. The only way to transfer this knowledge would be through direct experience—taking a colleague to the site and demonstrating the sensations and implications of the vibrations in real-time.

Methods to capture tacit knowledge include:

• Apprenticeships
• Mentoring programs
• Hands-on training sessions
• Video recordings of skilled practitioners

Examples of tacit knowledge include:

• Language proficiency
• Non-verbal communication skills
• Innovative thinking
• Leadership abilities
• Intuition and instinct
• Aesthetic judgment

The Nature of Explicit Knowledge

Explicit knowledge, on the other hand, is the type of knowledge that can be easily documented, shared, and transferred. It includes information that is formalized and structured, making it accessible to anyone who seeks it. This knowledge can be found in various forms, such as manuals, reports, databases, and academic literature. Explicit knowledge is objective and can be articulated, allowing for straightforward communication and application.

Examples of explicit knowledge include:

• Textbooks and academic articles
• Company policies and procedures
• Technical manuals and guides
• Standard operating procedures (SOPs)

Comparison of Tacit and Explicit Knowledge

Importance of Both Knowledge Types

Both tacit and explicit knowledge play critical roles in the functioning of organizations. Tacit knowledge fosters innovation and enhances problem-solving capabilities, while explicit knowledge provides a foundation for structured processes and efficient operations. Organizations that effectively leverage both types of knowledge can create a more dynamic and adaptable workforce.

For example, in manufacturing settings, explicit knowledge is often captured in the form of manuals that outline standard operating procedures. These manuals help employees understand what is expected of them and provide a clear framework for their tasks. However, the tacit knowledge of seasoned workers—such as their ability to troubleshoot unexpected issues on the production line—can lead to improvements in efficiency and quality that cannot be captured in written documents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between tacit and explicit knowledge is essential for organizations seeking to enhance their competitive advantage. By recognizing the value of tacit knowledge, organizations can implement strategies to capture and share this valuable asset while also ensuring that explicit knowledge is easily accessible to all employees. Balancing both types of knowledge will lead to a more knowledgeable, skilled, and innovative workforce, ultimately driving success in today's fast-paced business environment.

References:

1. Polanyi, M. (1966). The Tacit Dimension. Routledge.

2. Nonaka, I., & Takeuchi, H. (1995). The Knowledge-Creating Company: How Japanese Companies Create the Dynamics of Innovation. Oxford University Press.

3. Davenport, T. H., & Prusak, L. (1998). Working Knowledge: How Organizations Manage What They Know. Harvard Business Press.