Tribal knowledge

From CEOpedia | Management online

Tribal knowledge is information that is acquired through informal methods such as conversations, trial and error, and experience rather than through formal methods such as documentation or education. It is shared among a group of people and is rarely documented or transferred outside the group.

Tribal knowledge is an important part of organizational culture and is often used to create a shared understanding among members of a team. It can be used to quickly solve problems, share best practices, and provide insight into how the organization works. However, it can also be a source of confusion and misunderstanding if it is not properly managed or documented.

Tribal knowledge is typically passed from person to person through verbal communication or in-person interactions. It can also be exchanged through email, instant messaging, and other online communication tools. Some organizations may also use online tools such as wikis or blogs to document tribal knowledge and make it easier to share.

Example of Tribal knowledge

Tribal knowledge can take many forms, from tips and tricks to best practices, historical information, and organizational insights. Examples of tribal knowledge include:

  • Technical tips, such as how to quickly troubleshoot an issue with a system or application.
  • Best practices for how to complete a particular task or process.
  • Historical information about the organization, such as how it has evolved over time.
  • Insights into how the organization works, such as how decisions are made and how people interact with each other.

When to use Tribal knowledge

Tribal knowledge is best used in situations where the information needs to be shared quickly and informally. It can be used to quickly solve problems, provide insight into how the organization works, and share best practices. It is also useful for rapidly disseminating information about changes in the organization or changes in processes or procedures.

Tribal knowledge can also be used to quickly learn new skills or techniques and to build a shared understanding among members of a team or organization. It is also useful for quickly identifying areas of expertise in the organization or for connecting people with similar interests.

In summary, tribal knowledge is best used in situations where the information needs to be shared quickly and informally. It can be used to quickly solve problems, share best practices, and build a shared understanding among members of a team or organization.

Types of Tribal knowledge

There are several types of tribal knowledge that can be found in organizations. These include:

  • Processes and Procedures: This type of tribal knowledge includes the steps and procedures used to complete tasks or projects within the organization. It can be used to ensure that processes are followed consistently and that employees are able to quickly and effectively complete their work.
  • Best Practices: This type of tribal knowledge includes the methods and techniques that have been found to be most effective within the organization. It can be used to ensure that employees are following the most efficient procedures and that organizational processes are optimized for maximum efficiency.
  • Knowledge Sharing: This type of tribal knowledge includes the methods and tools used by an organization to facilitate the sharing of information among employees. It can be used to ensure that information is communicated quickly and effectively within the organization.

Steps of Tribal knowledge

  • Acquire: Tribal knowledge is acquired through informal methods such as conversations, trial and error, and experience rather than through formal methods such as documentation or education.
  • Manage: Tribal knowledge is an important part of organizational culture and is often used to create a shared understanding among members of a team. It must be managed and documented properly to avoid confusion.
  • Document: Some organizations may use online tools such as wikis or blogs to document tribal knowledge and make it easier to share.

Advantages of Tribal knowledge

Tribal knowledge can be a valuable asset to organizations as it can provide insight into how the organization works, share best practices, and quickly solve problems. Some of the advantages of tribal knowledge include:

  • Quick problem solving: Tribal knowledge can be used to quickly solve problems as it is often based on experience and the collective wisdom of the group.
  • Shared understanding: Tribal knowledge encourages team collaboration and creates a shared understanding among members.
  • Insight into organizational culture: Tribal knowledge can provide insight into the culture of the organization and how it operates.

Limitations of Tribal knowledge

Tribal knowledge is often seen as an effective way to quickly solve problems and share best practices, but it has several limitations.

  • It can be difficult to transfer tribal knowledge outside the group that it is initially learned in.
  • It is often not documented, so it can be lost if people leave the organization or forget the information.
  • It is subject to misinterpretation and can lead to misunderstandings if not used carefully.
  • It can limit innovation and creativity as it is focused on replicating existing practices.

Other approaches related to Tribal knowledge

Tribal knowledge can also be managed and documented through other approaches. These approaches can include:

  • Knowledge sharing platforms: Organizations can use knowledge sharing platforms to capture and store tribal knowledge. These platforms allow users to share documents, collaborate on projects, and create knowledge bases that can be accessed by anyone in the organization.
  • Knowledge audits: Knowledge audits are a way to review existing tribal knowledge and identify gaps in understanding. Through this process, organizations can create a framework for documenting and sharing tribal knowledge.
  • Training: Training programs can help employees understand and use tribal knowledge more effectively. Training can also be used to document and share tribal knowledge with new employees.


Tribal knowledge — recommended articles
Virtual shadowing — Explicit and implicit knowledge — Exchange of information — Management of knowledge — Communities of practice — Knowledge management processes — Tacit and explicit knowledge — Sharing of information — Transfer of knowledge

References

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