Successfully managing knowledge in your organization starts with a fundamental challenge: defining what knowledge is!

When I begin discussions with organizations, I often realize that they do not even know the difference between information and knowledge. Moreover, in some cultures and languages, the same word is used for both. For example, in Turkish, the word bilgi refers to both information and knowledge. As a result, the distinction between sharing information and sharing knowledge is often overlooked within organizations.

If organizations recognize this gap in defining knowledge and decide to focus on it, another challenge emerges: which definition to use? There are various definitions of knowledge, and it is easy to get lost among them. The Knowledge Management Institute (KMI) suggests that organizations establish their own definition of knowledge once they clearly differentiate between information and knowledge.

KMI uses three key concepts to define knowledge: “Knowledge is understanding gained from experience, analysis, and sharing.” Knowledge is connected to all prior experiences, derives insights from the analysis of information and data, and is enriched through sharing.

Frank Leistner, author of Mastering Organizational Knowledge Flow, argues that knowledge exists only within the context of the mind, leading him to assert that knowledge itself cannot be managed! What can be managed, however, is the flow of knowledge. This raises an important question: what about the widely used term “Knowledge Management”? KMI’s definition of knowledge management supports Leistner’s assertion: “KM is about optimizing the flow of knowledge.” In other words, while we can manage information, we cannot manage knowledge itself—only its flow.

Without a clear understanding of these concepts, organizations cannot effectively leverage knowledge for success. Alack of awareness about what knowledge truly is—and the importance of sharing it—remains one of the biggest barriers to organizational sustainability. Recognizing that knowledge is built upon experience, analysis, and sharing allows organizations to focus on what truly matters—creating an environment where knowledge can flow freely and be leveraged for success.

Once you overcome the definition trap, you can begin enhancing knowledge (flow) management in your organization with a holistic approach. Rather than focusing solely on technology, as many successful attempts have done, you should also prioritize people and processes. In fact, the people aspect will be your most important task.

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