Important Differences Between Explicit Knowledge and Tacit Knowledge

Explicit Knowledge

Explicit knowledge is knowledge that can be easily articulated, codified, and transferred through written or spoken language. It is information that can be expressed and communicated in a clear and structured way. Examples of explicit knowledge include scientific laws, mathematical formulas, procedures, and other types of structured information that can be easily transmitted and communicated.

Explicit knowledge is typically found in documents, manuals, textbooks, databases, or other forms of recorded information. It can be easily shared and communicated among individuals, groups, and organizations, and can be used to improve efficiency, productivity, and decision-making.

The main advantage of explicit knowledge is that it can be easily transferred and shared across individuals and organizations, which makes it an important asset for knowledge management and organizational learning. However, explicit knowledge is often limited in scope and may not capture the full range of knowledge that individuals possess. Additionally, explicit knowledge can become quickly outdated, requiring continuous updates and revisions to remain relevant.

Examples of Explicit Knowledge

Here are some examples of explicit knowledge:

• Laws such as the law of gravity, the laws of thermodynamics, or the laws of motion are examples of explicit knowledge that can be expressed in a clear and concise way.
• Formulas such as Pythagoras’ theorem, the quadratic formula, or the formula for calculating the area of a circle are examples of explicit knowledge that can be easily communicated and applied.
• SOPs are a type of explicit knowledge that outlines step-by-step instructions for completing a task or process. They are commonly used in manufacturing, healthcare, and other industries.
• Manuals and textbooks are a common source of explicit knowledge that provide structured information on a wide range of topics.

Types of Explicit Knowledge

There are several types of explicit knowledge, including:

1. Declarative knowledge: This type of explicit knowledge refers to factual information that can be easily expressed, such as names, dates, definitions, or concepts.
2. Procedural knowledge: This type of explicit knowledge refers to step-by-step instructions for completing a task or process. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) are an example of procedural knowledge.
3. Conceptual knowledge: This type of explicit knowledge refers to knowledge of abstract concepts or models, such as scientific theories, mathematical models, or philosophical ideas.
4. Domain-specific knowledge: This type of explicit knowledge refers to knowledge that is specific to a particular field or industry, such as medical knowledge, legal knowledge, or engineering knowledge.
5. Experiential knowledge: This type of explicit knowledge refers to knowledge that is gained through personal experience or observation, such as lessons learned from a project or case study.
6. Structural knowledge: This type of explicit knowledge refers to knowledge of organizational structures, systems, or processes, such as organizational charts, workflow diagrams, or project management methodologies.
7. Cultural knowledge: This type of explicit knowledge refers to knowledge of cultural norms, values, and practices, such as etiquette, customs, or traditions.

Elements of Explicit Knowledge

There are several elements of explicit knowledge, including:

• Content: This refers to the actual information or knowledge that is being communicated. It could be a scientific formula, a mathematical equation, or a set of instructions for completing a task.
• Context: This refers to the circumstances in which the knowledge is being communicated. It could include the purpose of the knowledge, the intended audience, and the cultural or social context in which the knowledge is being used.
• Representation: This refers to the way in which the knowledge is represented, such as through text, diagrams, or multimedia formats. The representation should be appropriate for the audience and the context in which the knowledge will be used.
• Classification: This refers to the way in which the knowledge is organized or classified, such as by subject, topic, or function. This can help to make the knowledge more accessible and easier to retrieve when needed.
• Reusability: This refers to the extent to which the knowledge can be reused or repurposed in different contexts. The more reusable the knowledge is, the more valuable it is likely to be.
• Validity: This refers to the accuracy and reliability of the knowledge. The knowledge should be based on sound evidence and should be tested and validated to ensure that it is reliable.

Functions of Explicit Knowledge

There are several key functions of explicit knowledge, including:

• Facilitating communication: Explicit knowledge provides a common language and framework for individuals and groups to communicate with each other, regardless of their background or experience.
• Enabling learning: Explicit knowledge can be used to teach and educate individuals, enabling them to acquire new skills and knowledge.
• Enhancing performance: Explicit knowledge can be used to improve performance by providing individuals with the information and tools they need to perform tasks more effectively.
• Promoting innovation: Explicit knowledge can be used to inspire new ideas and innovation, by providing individuals with the information and resources they need to think creatively.
• Supporting decision-making: Explicit knowledge can be used to inform and guide decision-making, by providing individuals with the information and insights they need to make informed choices.
• Improving efficiency: Explicit knowledge can be used to streamline processes and procedures, reducing errors and increasing efficiency.
• Supporting organizational memory: Explicit knowledge can be recorded and stored, providing a permanent record of organizational history, practices, and achievements.

Tacit Knowledge

Tacit knowledge refers to knowledge that is difficult to articulate or codify, often because it is deeply ingrained in an individual’s experience, intuition, or subconscious. Unlike explicit knowledge, which can be easily documented and shared, tacit knowledge is often implicit and difficult to transfer from one person to another.

Tacit knowledge is often context-specific, meaning that it is closely tied to a particular situation, task, or environment. It can also be difficult to recognize or identify, as individuals may not be consciously aware of the knowledge they possess.

Examples of tacit knowledge include the ability to recognize patterns in complex data, the intuition required to make good decisions in a particular field or industry, and the know-how required to complete a task efficiently and effectively. Tacit knowledge is often acquired through experience, practice, and observation, rather than through formal training or education.

Examples of Tacit Knowledge

Examples of tacit knowledge include:

• Once you learn how to ride a bike, it becomes a part of your muscle memory, making it difficult to articulate exactly how you balance, pedal, and steer.
• The ability to play an instrument well requires a combination of technical skill, intuition, and creativity, which can be difficult to articulate or teach.
• Experts in fields such as data analysis, market research, or medical diagnosis often possess tacit knowledge that enables them to recognize patterns and make accurate predictions based on subtle cues and indicators.
• Experienced customer service representatives may possess tacit knowledge that enables them to quickly assess customer needs, anticipate potential problems, and provide effective solutions.

Types of Tacit Knowledge

There are several types of tacit knowledge, including:

1. Cognitive tacit knowledge: This type of tacit knowledge is based on an individual’s cognitive processes, including their perception, intuition, and decision-making abilities. It includes skills such as pattern recognition, judgment, and problem-solving.
2. Technical tacit knowledge: This type of tacit knowledge is related to specific technical skills or expertise, such as the ability to operate complex machinery or use specialized software.
3. Social tacit knowledge: This type of tacit knowledge is related to social or interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively, build relationships, and navigate complex social dynamics.
4. Experiential tacit knowledge: This type of tacit knowledge is based on an individual’s personal experience, including their practical knowledge and expertise in a particular field or industry.
5. Cultural tacit knowledge: This type of tacit knowledge is related to an individual’s cultural background and social context, including their values, beliefs, and norms.

Elements of Tacit Knowledge

Tacit knowledge can be characterized by several key elements, including:

• Personal: Tacit knowledge is often closely tied to an individual’s personal experience, intuition, and perception. It is difficult to transfer to others because it is deeply ingrained in an individual’s subconscious and is often not consciously recognized or articulated.
• Context-specific: Tacit knowledge is often closely tied to a specific context or situation, such as a particular task, environment, or industry. It may not be easily transferable to other contexts, as it may be dependent on specific conditions or factors.
• Difficult to articulate: Tacit knowledge is often difficult to articulate or express in words, as it may be deeply embedded in an individual’s experience or intuition. It may be difficult to codify or document, and may rely on non-verbal cues or implicit understanding.
• Dynamic: Tacit knowledge is often dynamic and subject to change, as it is shaped by an individual’s ongoing experience, learning, and interaction with their environment. It may be difficult to predict or control, as it is shaped by ongoing factors such as feedback, reflection, and practice.

Functions of Tacit Knowledge

Tacit knowledge serves several important functions in various fields, including:

• Enhancing decision-making: Tacit knowledge can provide individuals with unique insights and perspectives that can help them make better decisions in complex or ambiguous situations.
• Improving problem-solving: Tacit knowledge can help individuals identify and solve problems more effectively, drawing on their intuition, experience, and creativity.
• Supporting innovation: Tacit knowledge can provide individuals with the skills and expertise needed to develop innovative solutions to complex problems or challenges.
• Facilitating learning and development: Tacit knowledge can play an important role in learning and development, helping individuals to develop practical skills and expertise through hands-on experience and observation.
• Enabling collaboration and teamwork: Tacit knowledge can help individuals work effectively in teams, providing a shared understanding and language that can facilitate communication and coordination.

Important Difference Between Explicit Knowledge and Tacit Knowledge

Here’s a table outlining the important differences between explicit knowledge and tacit knowledge:

Key Difference Between Explicit Knowledge and Tacit Knowledge

Here are key difference between explicit knowledge and tacit knowledge, including:

1. Acquisition: Explicit knowledge can be acquired through formal education, training, and experience, while tacit knowledge is often acquired through personal experience, observation, and interaction with the environment.
2. Documentation: Explicit knowledge can be easily documented, stored, and shared through various forms of media, while tacit knowledge is often difficult to document and may require personal interaction and observation to transfer.
3. Value: Explicit knowledge is often valued for its ability to be easily replicated and transferred, while tacit knowledge is highly valued for its uniqueness, personal nature, and potential to provide a competitive advantage.
4. Scope: Explicit knowledge is often focused on specific tasks, processes, or functions, while tacit knowledge is often broader in scope, encompassing a range of skills, experiences, and perspectives.
5. Use: Explicit knowledge is often used for routine tasks and processes, while tacit knowledge is often used for complex and ambiguous situations that require intuition, creativity, and personal judgment.

Similarities Between Explicit Knowledge and Tacit Knowledge

While explicit knowledge and tacit knowledge are different in many ways, they also share some similarities, including:

1. Importance: Both explicit and tacit knowledge are important for individuals and organizations to be successful in their respective fields.
2. Dynamic nature: Both explicit and tacit knowledge can change over time as new information is acquired, experiences are gained, and contexts shift.
3. Reliance on context: Both explicit and tacit knowledge are influenced by the context in which they are used, whether it be cultural, social, or organizational.
4. Complementarity: Both explicit and tacit knowledge are complementary and interdependent, with explicit knowledge often supporting the acquisition and transfer of tacit knowledge, while tacit knowledge may inform the development and application of explicit knowledge.
5. Human-centric: Both explicit and tacit knowledge are fundamentally human-centric, reflecting the unique perspectives, experiences, and capabilities of individuals within their respective contexts.

Conclusion Between Explicit Knowledge and Tacit Knowledge

In conclusion, explicit knowledge and tacit knowledge are two important types of knowledge that are essential for individuals and organizations to succeed in their respective fields. Explicit knowledge refers to information that can be easily codified, articulated, and communicated through language or other forms of representation, while tacit knowledge refers to knowledge that is deeply ingrained in an individual’s experience, intuition, and perception, and is often difficult to articulate or transfer to others.

While explicit knowledge and tacit knowledge differ in their characteristics, functions, and transferability, they also share important similarities, such as their dynamic nature, reliance on context, complementarity, and human-centricity. By recognizing and leveraging both types of knowledge, individuals and organizations can improve their decision-making, problem-solving, innovation, learning and development, and collaboration, ultimately leading to greater success and competitiveness in their fields.