Futures

Understanding Tacit Knowledge: Its Definition, Importance, and Examples, (from page 20221218.)

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Keywords

Themes

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Summary

Tacit knowledge, also known as implicit knowledge, refers to skills, insights, and experiences that are inherently difficult to articulate or codify. Unlike explicit knowledge, which can be easily documented and shared, tacit knowledge involves personal wisdom and intuition that is often gained through practice and experience. This type of knowledge is essential in various fields, as it is typically acquired through social interactions and shared experiences, making it challenging to transfer without close personal contact and trust. Michael Polanyi introduced the concept in his works, emphasizing that much of human knowledge is rooted in tacit understanding. Tacit knowledge can manifest in different forms, such as relational, somatic, and collective knowledge, and plays a critical role in areas like craftsmanship and learning. The Nonaka–Takeuchi model further explores the dynamics of tacit and explicit knowledge conversion within organizations.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Rising Importance of Tacit Knowledge Recognition of tacit knowledge’s value is growing in various fields. Shift from valuing only explicit knowledge to acknowledging tacit knowledge’s significance. In 10 years, tacit knowledge may be integrated into formal education and training systems. The need for holistic understanding in complex problem-solving and innovation drives this change. 4
Emphasis on Learning through Experience Learning methods are increasingly focusing on experiential and tacit knowledge acquisition. Transition from traditional learning to experiential and practice-based learning approaches. In a decade, education may prioritize hands-on experiences over theoretical knowledge. The recognition that practical skills are essential for success in many professions fuels this trend. 5
Integration of Diverse Expertise Collaborative environments are fostering tacit knowledge sharing among diverse teams. From isolated expertise to integrated, multi-disciplinary collaboration. Workplaces may evolve into hubs for interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing innovation. The complexity of modern challenges necessitates diverse perspectives and collaboration. 5
Development of Knowledge Management Practices Organizations are increasingly adopting practices to capture and share tacit knowledge. Shift from mere documentation of knowledge to active management of tacit knowledge. Over the next decade, organizations may develop sophisticated systems for tacit knowledge sharing. The pursuit of competitive advantage through knowledge-driven strategies drives this change. 4
Growing Recognition of Collective Tacit Knowledge There is a rising awareness of collective tacit knowledge in organizations and societies. From individual tacit knowledge to valuing collective knowledge within teams and communities. In 10 years, collective tacit knowledge may be recognized as a key organizational asset. The need for cohesive team performance and organizational learning drives this trend. 4

Concerns

name description relevancy
Transmission of Tacit Knowledge Concerns about the difficulties in transferring tacit knowledge effectively between individuals or groups due to its implicit nature. 4
Loss of Skills Potential decline in critical skills or crafts as tacit knowledge is not adequately passed down or documented, especially in traditional crafts and professions. 5
Trust and Relationships The need for trust and personal interactions in sharing tacit knowledge may hinder collaboration across diverse knowledge domains or cultures. 4
Erosion of Collective Knowledge The inability to codify and share collective tacit knowledge could lead to a decline in societal capabilities and innovations. 5
Dependency on Experts Over-reliance on few experts to convey tacit knowledge may result in vulnerabilities if these individuals are unavailable or leave the field. 4
Inequality in Knowledge Access Disparities may arise as individuals or groups lacking access to close mentoring or immersive experiences miss learning tacit knowledge. 5

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Recognition of Tacit Knowledge Growing awareness of the importance and existence of tacit knowledge in professional and personal contexts. 5
Emphasis on Experience-Based Learning Shift towards experiential learning methods, highlighting the value of hands-on practice over traditional classroom learning. 4
Collaboration for Knowledge Transfer Increased collaboration and interaction among individuals to facilitate the transfer of tacit knowledge. 5
Trust-Building in Knowledge Sharing Recognition of trust as a critical component for the effective sharing of tacit knowledge within teams and organizations. 5
Integration of Diverse Specializations Encouragement of interdisciplinary teams to tackle complex problems that require tacit knowledge from various fields. 4
Focus on Community of Practice Emergence of communities of practice as a means to share, develop, and transfer tacit knowledge among members. 4

Technologies

name description relevancy
Tacit Knowledge Management A process to effectively capture, share, and utilize tacit knowledge within organizations to enhance learning and innovation. 4
Knowledge Creation Model A framework that describes how tacit knowledge interacts with explicit knowledge, facilitating knowledge transfer and innovation in organizations. 5
Cognitive Apprenticeship An educational approach that emphasizes learning through observation and practice in a social context, crucial for tacit knowledge acquisition. 3
Social Networks for Knowledge Sharing Platforms designed to foster personal contacts and trust among individuals to facilitate the transfer of tacit knowledge. 4

Issues

name description relevancy
Tacit Knowledge Management The growing recognition of the importance of tacit knowledge in organizations and the need for effective management strategies to capture and transfer it. 5
Trust and Social Networks The role of trust and social networks in facilitating the transfer of tacit knowledge among individuals and groups. 4
Evolution of Learning Methods Shifts towards experiential and observational learning methods in education and professional training to enhance tacit knowledge acquisition. 4
Integration of Tacit and Explicit Knowledge The challenge of effectively integrating tacit and explicit knowledge for innovation and knowledge creation in organizations. 5
Collective Tacit Knowledge Understanding and leveraging collective tacit knowledge in societal contexts for better decision-making and problem-solving. 3
Embodied Knowledge in Technology The impact of embodied knowledge on technological development and the design of user-friendly systems that accommodate tacit skills. 4