Futures

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

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Keywords

Themes

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Summary

Explicit knowledge refers to information that can be easily articulated, codified, stored, and accessed. It is expressed in formal language and can be shared through data, scientific formulas, manuals, and other formats. This type of knowledge is easily transmittable without loss of integrity, provided the necessary syntactical rules are understood. Examples of explicit knowledge include encyclopedias, textbooks, manuals, documents, and how-to videos, as well as engineering works and product designs. It is often viewed as complementary to tacit knowledge, which is more personal and harder to express.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Rise of Digital Knowledge Storage Increasing reliance on digital platforms for storing explicit knowledge. Shift from physical to digital storage of knowledge resources. In ten years, knowledge storage may be predominantly digital, with reduced physical formats. Advancements in technology and the need for quick access to information drive this change. 4
Integration of Explicit and Tacit Knowledge Growing emphasis on blending explicit knowledge with tacit knowledge for better outcomes. Transition from isolated explicit knowledge to integrated knowledge systems. Ten years from now, organizations may leverage integrated knowledge systems to enhance innovation. The pursuit of more holistic approaches to knowledge management motivates this integration. 3
Evolution of Knowledge Sharing Practices New methods and tools emerging for sharing explicit knowledge across diverse platforms. Change from traditional knowledge sharing to more dynamic, tech-driven interactions. In a decade, knowledge sharing could be seamless and instantaneous across global networks. The rapid evolution of communication technologies is a key driver of this change. 4
Increased Use of Multimedia in Knowledge Representation Growing use of audio-visual formats to convey explicit knowledge. Shift from text-based to multimedia knowledge resources. In ten years, educational and training materials may predominantly feature multimedia formats. The demand for more engaging and accessible learning experiences fosters this shift. 5

Concerns

name description relevancy
Knowledge Representation and Integrity Concerns arise from potential loss of knowledge integrity during codification and transmission of explicit knowledge. 4
Accessibility and Storage Limitations Issues may emerge regarding the long-term accessibility and storage of explicit knowledge in various media formats. 3
Over-Reliance on Explicit Knowledge An increasing reliance on explicit knowledge may lead to undervaluation of tacit knowledge and human skills. 5
Data Security and Intellectual Property The codification of explicit knowledge could expose sensitive data to security risks and IP theft. 5
Knowledge Obsolescence As explicit knowledge is codified, there is a risk of it becoming outdated or irrelevant, affecting its utility. 4

Behaviors

name description relevancy
Codification of Knowledge The systematic articulation and storage of knowledge in formal language enables easy access and transmission. 4
Integration of Explicit and Tacit Knowledge Recognition of the complementary relationship between explicit and tacit knowledge enhances overall understanding and application. 5
Use of Multimedia for Knowledge Sharing Incorporating audio-visual elements like videos and designs to convey explicit knowledge effectively. 4
Dynamic Knowledge Creation Adapting knowledge creation processes to be more fluid and responsive to changing environments and needs. 5

Technologies

name description relevancy
Explicit Knowledge Systems Systems designed to articulate, codify, and store explicit knowledge for easy access and transmission. 4
Knowledge Management Solutions Tools and frameworks that facilitate the organization and sharing of explicit knowledge across organizations. 4
Virtual Learning Environments Digital platforms that support the sharing and teaching of explicit knowledge through multimedia formats. 3
Data Codification Technologies Technologies that enhance the ability to codify and store explicit knowledge in various media formats. 3

Issues

name description relevancy
Digital Knowledge Management The increasing importance of managing explicit knowledge in digital formats necessitates evolving strategies and tools. 4
Integration of Tacit and Explicit Knowledge The relationship and balance between tacit and explicit knowledge are key to enhancing organizational learning and innovation. 4
Knowledge Sharing Platforms The rise of platforms that facilitate the sharing of explicit knowledge can impact education and corporate training. 3
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Knowledge Codification AI’s role in transforming how explicit knowledge is codified and accessed presents both opportunities and challenges. 5
Evolving Educational Resources The shift in educational resources from traditional textbooks to dynamic, explicit knowledge formats such as online manuals and videos. 3