Why do some organizations thrive while others struggle with inefficiency and poor communication? The answer often lies in how they manage their explicit knowledge.
This systematically documented information – such as manuals, guides and policies – lays the foundation for clarity, consistency and smarter decision-making.
But what exactly is explicit knowledge and why is it so important? Understanding its definition, characteristics, and how it differs from other types of knowledge is the first step to effectively leveraging it for the right organizational intent.
What is explicit knowledge?
Explicit knowledge is documented information that is easily communicable and shared. It is knowledge expressed in a tangible form, such as training manuals , onboarding procedures and reports, that is accessible to others in the organization.
Explicit knowledge is the backbone of effective knowledge management systems, enabling organizations to maintain clarity and foster innovation.
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Explicit knowledge ensures that new employees hit the ground running and learn consistently and effectively without the need for assistance.
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Pave the way for a smooth initiation into a new role with a documented onboarding process
Reduce knowledge loss
People leave, but their knowledge doesn’t have to. By capturing essential knowledge in accessible formats, companies can retain institutional knowledge long after employees leave. This safeguard reduces dependency on people and protects against disruption.
Improve decision making
Good decisions require good data. Explicit knowledge provides the reliable, up-to-date information that managers need to plan strategically. It eliminates guesswork, turning decisions into calculated steps toward growth.
Read more : How to create an effective product knowledge training plan to ensure information is shared across teams.
Establish goals for knowledge acquisition and transfer
Clear objectives are essential to effectively capture and transfer knowledge. Set specific goals, such as reducing onboarding time or improving access to operational guidelines. These objectives guide efforts and ensure alignment with organizational priorities.
Identify knowledge gaps
Conduct regular audits to detect gaps in your organization’s knowledge base. Analyze processes and feedback to identify information that is missing or out of date. By filling these gaps, employees will have up-to-date and relevant resources to perform their tasks effectively.
Encourage employee contributions
Actively involve employees in the knowledge sharing process. Team members contribute valuable insights from their personal experiences and practical knowledge. Encourage them to document processes, lessons learned, and best practices. This collective effort enriches the organization's knowledge repositories.