The Definition of Knowledge and Its Management: A Guide to Community Management

The Definition of Knowledge and Its Management: A Guide to Community Management

Introduction

In today's rapidly evolving world, the management of knowledge has become increasingly important. As the World Development Report 1988 released by the World Bank states, knowledge is the information for production. However, knowledge is not simply information found in books; it is the ability to apply information to specific work and performance. In this article, we will explore the definition of knowledge and its management, as well as delve into the importance of community management.

The Value of Knowledge

Knowledge is a fragmented resource that needs to be constantly upgraded. Its value and interests cannot be easily quantified. Peter Drucker, a renowned management consultant, predicted in 1965 that knowledge would become the most important factor of production in the 21st century. He believed that the most valuable asset in organizations would be knowledgeable employees and their productivity.

With the advent of the content creator economy and the improvements in infrastructure, individuals may spend less time in one organization but live longer lives. This highlights the need for knowledge management and the importance of investing in knowledge to accumulate compound interests.

Managing Knowledge like Portfolios

Andrew Hunt offers an interesting perspective on knowledge management. He suggests managing knowledge in the same way one manages portfolios. This approach involves regular investments in learning, always seeking to acquire new emerging techniques, and periodically evaluating and balancing one's investments. By adopting this strategy, individuals can ensure that their knowledge is constantly updated and relevant.

Types of Knowledge

Knowledge can be categorized into two main types: general and specialized. General knowledge refers to wisdom that cultivates moral human beings. It encompasses a wide range of historical facts, experiences, and statistics. On the other hand, specialized knowledge is information that can be proven effective in specific actions, such as work, study, analysis, and management.

Within these categories, knowledge can further be classified into four types: knowledge of facts (know what), knowledge of principles (know why), knowledge of skills (know how), and knowledge of humans (know who). Each type of knowledge plays a unique role in various aspects of life and work.