Knowledge Transfer Meaning, Types & Methods

The Knowledge transfer, also called a KT session, is a method of sharing knowledge with other departments or persons within the same organization. Learning about its meaning is therefore important because, when an employee leaves an entity, businesses use the transfer of knowledge strategies to fill gaps that may develop later.

Moreover, knowledge transfer can help businesses at the time of a merger with another company. Hence, this transfer ensures that anyone in the organization who needs access can view the critical information.

Types of Knowledge Transfer

Two types of knowledge transfer are carried out in any organization. These are:

Explicit

Explicit transfer of knowledge in organizations involves sharing formally documented information within an organization. Importantly, this includes written resources such as process documents, product documentation, formal manuals, and other written resources. In addition, such knowledge is easy to share, measurable, and typically requires minimal guidance to understand.

Tacit

This is a more interactive approach to sharing information. Specifically, it includes mentoring, coaching, workshops, and guidance. Additionally, this type of knowledge comes from experienced employees who possess deep, practical skills. Because it is based on personal insight and experience, tacit knowledge is difficult to codify or contain in fixed structures.

Methods of Knowledge Transfer

There are two primary methods of transferring knowledge, based on how employees engage in the process.

Exploration Oriented

This method includes smooth learning and adoption of new systems at work. In particular, experienced users guide others. It includes the following steps:

Training new users on using the system effectively.
Support system setup during implementation by using a user manual.
Perform testing to ensure the system works as expected.
Share insights and learnings gained during system use.
Continue to configure and share knowledge post-development.

Instruction Oriented

This method of (KT) sessions involves professional experts handling the setup of a new system, while some experienced employees oversee the process. Therefore, these experienced employees ensure everything is done right, and they don’t necessarily do the setup.

In this manner, everyone gets the training on how to use the system. Even after it is running, professionals are there to help answer any questions. Hence, it is like having experts to build a system for you and guide you through its use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.	What is knowledge transfer meaning?
Ans.	Knowledge transfer is a strategy for sharing information and processes from one professional to their peers in the organization. Thus, it ensures that valuable information is not lost but passed on effectively for future use.
Q2.	Why is knowledge transfer important?
Ans.	Knowledge transfer is important because it makes sure that important information is not lost in the organization, especially when employee leaves, retire, or change roles. Further, it matters because it prevents knowledge loss, improves onboarding and training, and encourages collaboration across departments. In the same way, it also supports business continuity.
Q3.	What are the benefits of knowledge transfer for employees?
Ans.	This process has a lot of benefits. To begin with, it creates a knowledge-sharing culture, helps employees learn new skills, retains experienced knowledge, and develops a better learning environment. Additionally, it also helps employees generate new ideas and assists employees in transitioning to new roles.
Q4.	How can organizations ensure effective knowledge transfer?
Ans.	Organizations can ensure effective transfer of knowledge in the following ways: – By developing a knowledge transfer plan. – Utilizing mentorship and shadowing programs. – Onboarding new leaders for a smooth transition. – By guaranteeing succession planning. – Fostering a knowledge-sharing culture among team members.
Q5.	What are the common challenges in knowledge transfer?
Ans.	Some of the common challenges are: – Poor documentation practices, due to unclear communication among the team members. – Teams spread across different locations may struggle with consistent and smooth knowledge flow. – Knowledge sharing efforts can become chaotic or overlooked due to team misalignment. – Lack of a structured plan can lead to confusion and slow progress in transferring knowledge. – Ineffective communication and misunderstandings caused by unclear language, low trust, or vague roles can block effective knowledge sharing.
Q6.	What is a KT session?
Ans.	The transfer of knowledge in HR is often referred to as a KT session. Importantly, it includes passing of information and skills from one person or group to another. Additionally, it’s a structured way to share expertise within or across teams, departments, or even external stakeholders who can benefit from the knowledge.
Q7.	How is HR connected to knowledge transfer?
Ans.	HR plays a crucial role in the transfer of knowledge by establishing the processes, culture, and tools needed to support it across the organization. From onboarding and training new employees to succession planning for future leaders, HR ensures that valuable knowledge is shared and retained.
Q8.	How does technology help in knowledge transfer?
Ans.	Technology plays a crucial role in enabling effective transfer of knowledge by making it easier to share information across teams in the organization. Moreover, tools like knowledge management systems, cloud-based platforms like Empxtrack exit management tool, and collaborative software (e.g., Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, Slack) allow employees to document processes, share best practices, and access critical resources in real-time. Similarly, e-learning platforms, webinars, and video tutorials also support continuous organizational learning and training.