Tacit Knowledge vs. Explicit Knowledge — What's the Difference?

Explicit Knowledge, in contrast, is knowledge that has been or can be articulated, codified, and stored in certain media. It is amenable to communication or distribution and can be systematically organized. Think of Explicit Knowledge as the manuals, databases, or any documented procedures that a company might possess. A set of guidelines for operating a machine is an example of Explicit Knowledge.

While both forms of knowledge have immense value, Tacit Knowledge is inherently more challenging to capture and share due to its subjective and intangible nature. Explicit Knowledge, with its definitive structure, can be easily disseminated across individuals or organizations. However, the real challenge often lies in converting Tacit Knowledge into an explicit form to harness its full potential.

Conversely, while Explicit Knowledge can be easily accessed and transferred, it lacks the nuanced understanding or depth that Tacit Knowledge offers. Recognizing and valuing both these types of knowledge is crucial for an organization's growth and innovation.

Tacit Knowledge and Explicit Knowledge are two pivotal concepts in the realm of knowledge management, each serving a distinct function. Tacit Knowledge embodies that which is understood or known but difficult to articulate or express in words. It's the type of knowledge that's often gained from personal experience or insights and is deeply embedded in individual cognition. For instance, the intuition or 'gut feeling' a seasoned manager might have about a business decision is a manifestation of Tacit Knowledge.