Conceptual framework for capturing tacit knowledge in construction projects

Abstract

The importance of knowledge management is increasingly being recognised in almost every industry Managing knowledge effectively is critical to the survival and advance of a company especially in project-based industries such as construction. Knowledge comes in two different types as explicit and tacit knowledge. Tacit knowledge is based on the experience of individuals and is not easily visible or expressible. It is stored in people's heads, so it is difficult to pass on to others. Much knowledge in the construction industry is experience-based and tacit. However, this type of knowledge usually is not captured during the construction phase. This paper proposes a conceptual framework for capturing tacit knowledge in construction projects. The main components of this proposed framework are the knowledge sources, the knowledge manager, the project team and the knowledge management system by which knowledge could be stored, shared and reused in future projects.