"The Power of Tacit Knowledge: Insights from Dieter Rams' Design Principles"

Kazuki

Hatched by Kazuki

Jul 04, 2023

4 min read

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"The Power of Tacit Knowledge: Insights from Dieter Rams' Design Principles"

In the world of knowledge and expertise, there are two types that hold significant importance - tacit knowledge and deliberate practice. Tacit knowledge refers to knowledge that cannot be easily captured through words alone. It is the kind of knowledge that is gained through emulation, action, and apprenticeship. On the other hand, deliberate practice is the intentional and focused effort to improve one's skills in a particular domain. While both types of knowledge have their merits, tacit knowledge often proves to be more valuable in certain fields.

When it comes to acquiring expertise, tacit knowledge plays a crucial role. It is through imitation and emulation of a master that one can internalize the principles and skills necessary for success. Think of a novice learning to ride a bicycle. No amount of explanation can fully convey the embodied feelings and balance required to ride it successfully. It is only through observation, trial and error, and practice that the novice can gain the tacit knowledge needed to master the skill.

In contrast, deliberate practice is more suited for domains with a long history of established pedagogy, such as music, math, and chess. Deliberate practice involves following a set of procedures and exercises, often guided by a teacher or coach. However, this approach can sometimes limit creativity and problem-solving abilities. Merely following a list of procedures denies individuals the opportunity to build expertise and develop their own unique problem-solving strategies.

The concept of tacit knowledge is not limited to specific skills or domains. It extends to complex judgment and decision-making, where multiple considerations need to be balanced simultaneously. Experts in various fields rely on tacit knowledge to make instantaneous decisions that take into account numerous factors. This type of knowledge is difficult to learn through explicit explanation alone. It requires hands-on experience, exposure to real-world scenarios, and the ability to make mistakes and learn from them.

Interestingly, the belief in the existence of tacit knowledge can actually enhance the learning process. When we acknowledge that there are aspects of expertise that cannot be fully articulated, we become more open to alternative learning methods. Instead of waiting for a breakthrough that makes tacit knowledge explicit, we can focus on gaining that knowledge directly through immersion, observation, and experiential learning.

One example of the significance of tacit knowledge can be seen in the field of design. Dieter Rams, a renowned German industrial designer, emphasized the importance of simplicity, usability, and aesthetic appeal in his design principles. His commandments for good design highlight the need for innovative, useful, and unobtrusive products that are environmentally friendly and long-lasting.

Rams' principles align closely with the concept of tacit knowledge. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the user and designing products that are intuitive and easy to interact with. By reducing cognitive load and eliminating non-essential elements, the design itself does the thinking for the user. This approach aligns with the idea that tacit knowledge is best acquired through action and interaction rather than explicit instruction.

So, how can we incorporate the power of tacit knowledge and Rams' design principles into our own endeavors? Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

  • 1. Seek out mentors or masters in your field: Find individuals who have expertise and experience in the areas you want to excel in. Emulate their actions, seek their feedback, and learn through observation and osmosis. Apprenticeship and mentorship can provide invaluable opportunities to gain tacit knowledge.
  • 2. Embrace simplicity in your designs and actions: Apply Rams' principle of "less, but better" to your work. Focus on the essential aspects and eliminate non-essentials that clutter your designs or processes. By reducing cognitive load and making things intuitive, you can enhance user experience and allow tacit knowledge to guide interactions.
  • 3. Stay curious and open-minded: Tacit knowledge often arises from unexpected sources and experiences. Cultivate a mindset of continuous learning and exploration. Be willing to step outside your comfort zone and embrace new challenges. This openness can lead to valuable insights and the acquisition of tacit knowledge.

In conclusion, tacit knowledge holds immense value in the development of expertise and the creation of impactful designs. While deliberate practice has its place in certain domains, the ability to internalize skills and judgment through emulation and action is often more valuable. By recognizing the importance of tacit knowledge and incorporating it into our learning and design processes, we can unlock new levels of creativity and problem-solving abilities. So, let us embrace the power of tacit knowledge and strive for simplicity, usability, and innovation in our pursuits.

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