knowledgeknowhow

Knowledgeknowhow is a concept in knowledge management that refers to the integrated body of knowledge and practical capability that enables individuals and organizations to perform tasks effectively. It combines factual information, procedural steps, and experiential skill to support decision making and execution in real-world contexts.

The term is used to emphasize the synergy between explicit knowledge (what is known and documented) and tacit know-how (how tasks are actually done). It highlights that effective performance relies on both the codified information and the hands-on ability to apply it in practice.

In practice, knowledgeknowhow is built through a mix of documentation, training, mentorship, and social learning. Methods include knowledge bases, standard operating procedures, after-action reviews, simulations, communities of practice, and apprenticeship programs that capture both know-what and know-how. Digital tools can aid by linking explicit content with experiential guidance and contextual examples.

Organizations use knowledgeknowhow to shorten onboarding, improve quality, and accelerate innovation, while facing challenges such as transferring tacit knowledge, keeping content up to date, and measuring impact. Related concepts include know-how, tacit knowledge, codification, and organizational learning.