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What is Knowledge Creation?
Knowledge Creation is the process through which new knowledge is generated within an organization or system through learning, interaction, experimentation, and experience. It is a core driver of innovation, adaptation, and continuous improvement.
Definition
Knowledge Creation is the deliberate or emergent process of developing new insights, ideas, or know-how that can be applied to improve decisions, products, or processes.
Key Takeaways
- Fuels innovation and organisational learning.
- Occurs through interaction between people, processes, and environments.
- Involves both tacit and explicit knowledge.
Understanding Knowledge Creation
Knowledge Creation happens when individuals and teams combine experience, data, and reflection to produce new understanding. It may occur formally through research and development, training, and structured problem-solving, or informally through collaboration and day-to-day work.
A well-known framework for knowledge creation is the SECI model (Socialisation, Externalisation, Combination, Internalisation), which explains how tacit and explicit knowledge interact and evolve.
Organisations that support experimentation, psychological safety, and learning cultures tend to generate knowledge more effectively.
Formula (If Applicable)
Knowledge Creation is not formula-based, but is often supported by:
- Learning loops and feedback cycles
- Experimentation and iteration
- Collaboration and reflection mechanisms
Real-World Example
A product development team prototypes new features, tests them with users, and refines designs based on feedback, creating new product knowledge.
In consulting, teams generate new frameworks and insights by reflecting on repeated client engagements.
Importance in Business or Economics
Knowledge Creation enables organisations to adapt to change, differentiate offerings, and sustain competitive advantage. In fast-moving industries, the ability to continuously create knowledge is often more important than existing assets.
At a broader level, knowledge creation underpins innovation systems and economic growth.
Types or Variations
- Individual Knowledge Creation: Learning through experience.
- Team-Based Knowledge Creation: Collaboration and problem-solving.
- Organisational Knowledge Creation: Institutionalised learning and innovation.
Related Terms
- Knowledge Management (KM)
- Organizational Learning
- Innovation
- Knowledge Sharing
Sources and Further Reading
Quick Reference
- Core Idea: Generating new knowledge.
- Primary Driver: Learning and interaction.
- Impact: Innovation and adaptability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is knowledge creation intentional?
It can be both intentional and emergent.
Does technology create knowledge?
Technology supports creation, but humans create knowledge.
How can organisations encourage knowledge creation?
By supporting learning, experimentation, and collaboration.
