Why Tacit Knowledge and Figma's Collaboration Features Are Essential for Expertise and Design

Why Tacit Knowledge and Figma's Collaboration Features Are Essential for Expertise and Design

In today's fast-paced world, expertise and design have become crucial skills for success. However, simply acquiring knowledge or using design tools is not enough. There are deeper elements at play that contribute to true mastery and innovation. Two seemingly unrelated topics, tacit knowledge and Figma's collaboration features, actually share common points that can enhance our understanding and approach to these fields.

Tacit knowledge, as defined by Ikujiro Nonaka in "The Knowledge-Creating Company," goes beyond explicit knowledge that can be easily communicated through words. It encompasses the embodied feelings and intuition necessary to excel in a particular domain. Tacit knowledge is often acquired through imitation, emulation, and apprenticeship, where individuals learn by observing and copying the actions of masters. This type of learning allows for the internalization of underlying principles and the development of complex judgment skills.

On the other hand, Figma, a popular design tool, has revolutionized the way teams collaborate on design projects. Unlike traditional design software, Figma operates in the cloud, enabling real-time editing and seamless collaboration among team members. This browser-first approach, supported by technologies like WebGL and CRDTs, has made it easier for designers and non-designers alike to work together on a single design.

Although tacit knowledge and Figma's collaboration features may seem unrelated, they both highlight the importance of experiential learning and collective progress in their respective fields. Tacit knowledge instruction emphasizes the value of learning through emulation and apprenticeship, rather than relying solely on explicit explanations. Similarly, Figma's focus on collaboration recognizes that the constraints on design are often not just technical, but also social and organizational. By involving non-designers in the design process, Figma has created a tool that aligns with how teams collaborate and fosters collective progress.

The connection between these two topics becomes even more apparent when considering the challenges of expertise and design. Simply providing a list of procedures or tools to follow can hinder the development of expertise and limit creative problem-solving. Expertise requires the internalization of tacit knowledge, which is difficult to achieve through explicit instruction alone. Similarly, design tools that solely cater to individual designers neglect the collaborative aspect of design and hinder the potential for collective progress.

To make the most of tacit knowledge and Figma's collaboration features, there are actionable steps that individuals can take:

• 1. Seek out mentors and masters in your field: Emulating and learning from those who have already mastered the domain can provide invaluable insights and help internalize tacit knowledge. Look for opportunities to work under experienced professionals and learn through imitation and feedback.

• 2. Embrace collaboration and involve non-designers in the design process: Recognize that design is not just about pixels, but also about people. Encourage collaboration and seek input from individuals with different perspectives and expertise. Figma's collaboration features make this easier, but the mindset of inclusivity and collaboration is key.

• 3. Stay updated on advancements in your field: Keep an eye out for new research and methods related to tacit knowledge and collaboration. For example, the field of Naturalistic Decision Making (NDM) focuses on making practice more effective by understanding and leveraging tacit knowledge. Stay informed and implement strategies that align with the principles of tacit knowledge and collaboration.

In conclusion, tacit knowledge and Figma's collaboration features offer valuable insights into the domains of expertise and design. By recognizing the importance of experiential learning, emulation, and collective progress, individuals can enhance their mastery and innovation in these fields. Embracing the principles of tacit knowledge and leveraging collaborative tools like Figma can lead to breakthroughs and advancements that were previously unimaginable. So, let's embrace the power of tacit knowledge and collaborative design to shape a better future.