The 7 Different Types of Knowledge Everyone Should Know

The 7 Different Types of Knowledge Everyone Should Know

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When devising a robust knowledge management strategy, it is imperative to understand and incorporate the different types of knowledge to create a comprehensive knowledge base that caters to both short-term and long-term organisational goals. Let's delve into the seven fundamental types of knowledge, shedding light on explicit vs. tacit knowledge and their diverse applications.

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Explicit Knowledge

Explicit knowledge encompasses information that is easily documented in a structured format, making it readily shareable on a larger scale. This type of knowledge includes formalised data, strategies, and insights that aid in informed decision-making, saving time, and enhancing overall performance.
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Examples of explicit knowledge are FAQs, data-driven reports, and strategy documents, traditionally stored in knowledge bases or aspart of a knowledge management strategy.

Implicit Knowledge

Implicit knowledge refers to learned skills and know-how acquired through the practical application of explicit knowledge in specific situations. This type of knowledge is derived from experience and is often challenging to capture in traditional knowledge bases. It embodies the know-how of experienced employees who have acquired best practices over time.

Knowledge reels and pre-recorded calls showcasing effective task performance are instances of implicit knowledge.

Tacit Knowledge

Tacit knowledge comprises intangible, nuanced information that is difficult to convey directly, often understood through experience,culture, or personal insights. This informal knowledge is gained over time and pertains to specific situations, enabling others to gain expertise gradually.
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Skills like upselling, leadership, or adeptly handling customer complaints fall under the domain of tacit knowledge. Organisations can strengthen employees' tacit knowledge by sharing techniques and tips for handling various scenarios.

Declarative Knowledge

Declarative knowledge encompasses static facts and information specific to a given topic, easily accessible and retrievable.Individuals consciously possess an understanding of this type of knowledge. Itis typically stored in documentation or databases and focuses on the 'who,''what,' 'where,' and 'when' aspects of information rather than the 'how' or 'why.'
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Examples include knowledge of the company's history, goals,values, or factual data like fire exit locations and fire alarm assembly points.

Procedural Knowledge

Procedural knowledge centres around the 'how' of processes and tasks, demonstrated through practical execution. Unlike declarative knowledge, it is less articulated and often documented through manuals or actions.
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For instance, standard operating procedures (SOPs) describing specific tasks or equipment usage in an organisation exemplify procedural knowledge.

A Posteriori Knowledge

A posteriori knowledge is subjective and derives from individual experiences. While it may not be documented in a company's knowledgebase, it plays a vital role in team success. A posteriori knowledge enables individuals to identify their strengths and weaknesses, contributing to the diversification of team skill sets.
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An example could be looking through product reviews before making a purchase or an experienced staff member suggesting the best time for cleaning a care home based on prior experiences and evidence.

A Priori Knowledge

Contrary to a posteriori knowledge, a priori knowledge is independent of experience or evidence and is often derived through logical reasoning or abstract thinking. Although not always documented, it is evident in a team's ability to understand and reason when faced with challenges.
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Classic examples of a priori knowledge are mathematical equations, where real-world experiences are not necessary to derive accurate answers. If someone was to ask another person what 8+4= ? an individual would use their logic to calculate the answer and would not need to find 12 objects to work out the answer.

Most Used Knowledge in Organisations

Explicit knowledge reigns as the most used knowledge across organisations due to its ease of articulation, documentation, and transferability. It encompasses factual data, rules, procedures, and other information that can be efficiently communicated and shared through written documents, databases, manuals, and standard operating procedures.
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Sharing and expressing tacit knowledge is typically the typeof knowledge most organisations have challenges capturing due to its connection with personal experiences. Consider the scenario of a highly accomplished sales representative coaching others on effective client management; their innate sales prowess is natural and effortless. Attempting to capture tacit knowledge in documentation can be difficult given its intricate and subjective nature.This poses a huge risk of knowledge loss when experienced members of staffleave companies creating knowledge gaps.

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Wrap Up

Understanding the diversity of knowledge types lays the foundation for a successful knowledge management strategy. Each type plays a unique role in driving organisational growth, innovation, and competitive advantage. A comprehensive approach to knowledge management should aim to capture, manage, and leverage all these knowledge types effectively. For organisations seeking to elevate their knowledge management processes, Reelyzeoffers a cutting-edge Knowledge Experience Platform (KxP) designed to cater to all knowledge needs, from explicit and procedural knowledge management to facilitating seamless sharing and collaboration for tacit and implicit knowledge. With Reelyze, your organisation can unlock the true potential of its knowledge resources, empowering teams to thrive in an ever-changing landscape of knowledge and insights.

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