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What is Knowledge Mapping?
Knowledge Mapping is a structured method used to identify, visualise, and analyse where knowledge exists within an organisation, how it flows, and who holds it. It helps organisations understand critical knowledge assets and relationships.
Definition
Knowledge Mapping is the process of creating a visual or structured representation of knowledge sources, holders, flows, and gaps within an organisation.
Key Takeaways
- Makes invisible knowledge visible.
- Identifies knowledge gaps, risks, and dependencies.
- Supports Knowledge Management, succession planning, and decision-making.
Understanding Knowledge Mapping
Much organisational knowledge is informal, fragmented, or embedded in people and processes. Knowledge Mapping brings clarity by showing how knowledge is distributed across roles, teams, systems, and documents.
Maps may highlight experts, key documents, systems, workflows, and dependencies. They are often created using interviews, surveys, workshops, and document analysis, then represented visually or digitally.
Knowledge Mapping is commonly used alongside Knowledge Audits to prioritise retention, sharing, and development efforts.
Formula (If Applicable)
Knowledge Mapping is not formula-based, but effectiveness is assessed through:
- Visibility of critical knowledge
- Reduced dependency on individuals
- Improved access to expertise
- Identified gaps and overlaps
Real-World Example
A utility company creates a knowledge map to identify which engineers hold expertise in critical infrastructure systems. The map reveals high dependency on a small group nearing retirement, prompting targeted retention and transfer actions.
In consulting firms, knowledge maps help staff quickly locate subject-matter experts across practice areas.
Importance in Business or Economics
Knowledge Mapping reduces operational risk, improves efficiency, and accelerates learning. It enables organisations to respond faster to change by knowing where expertise resides.
At a strategic level, it supports workforce planning, innovation, and resilience.
Types or Variations
- Expert Maps: Identify who knows what.
- Process Knowledge Maps: Link knowledge to workflows.
- System Knowledge Maps: Show where knowledge is stored digitally.
Related Terms
- Knowledge Audit
- Knowledge Management (KM)
- Knowledge Retention
- Knowledge Transfer
Sources and Further Reading
Quick Reference
- Core Idea: Visualise organisational knowledge.
- Primary Outcome: Awareness of assets, gaps, and risks.
- Impact: Better continuity and decision-making.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Knowledge Mapping only for large organisations?
No, it is valuable for organisations of all sizes.
How often should knowledge maps be updated?
Regularly, especially after organisational changes.
Does Knowledge Mapping require special software?
Not necessarily, though digital tools improve usability.
