Knowledge Codification

• Knowledge codification means converting tacit knowledge to explicit knowledge in a usable form for the organizational members.

• Tacit knowledge (e.g., human expertise) is identified and leveraged through a form that is able to produce highest return for the business.

• Explicit knowledge is organized, categorized, indexed and accessed.

• The organizing often includes decision trees, decision tables etc.

• Codification must be done in a form/structure which will eventually build the knowledge base.

• The resulting knowledge base supports training and decision making.
  • Diagnosis.

  • Training/Instruction.

  • Interpretation.

  • Prediction.

  • Planning/Scheduling.

• The knowledge developer should note the following points before initiating knowledge codification:
  • Recorded knowledge is often difficult to access (because it is either fragmented or poorly organized).

  • Diffusion of new knowledge is too slow.

  • Knowledge is nor shared, but hoarded (this can involve political implications).

  • Often knowledge is not found in the proper form.

  • Often knowledge is not available at the correct time when it is needed.

  • Often knowledge is not present in the proper location where it should be present.

  • Often the knowledge is found to be incomplete.