The secure and effective organisation of knowledge transfer poses particular challenges for managers. Especially in the first stage of a project or transformation, clear and targeted communication is crucial. Knowledge transfer is not a one-way street, but an interactive process that requires guidance and impetus in order to achieve sustainable learning success. Decision-makers in particular should consciously familiarise themselves with the various facets and methods in order to pass on complex content in an understandable and useful way.
Knowledge transfer: the foundation for successful decision-making processes
Knowledge transfer is present in many ways in everyday working life - from project presentations in management to training in technical departments. For example, a leading industrial company reports that clear information flows tailored to the respective team have significantly improved collaboration. In software development, agile teams also use regular retrospectives to share knowledge and continuously improve. In the financial sector, on the other hand, interactive workshops help to make complex regulatory requirements understandable so that everyone involved can act with confidence.
These examples show how knowledge transfer not only conveys facts, but also opens up a dialogue that promotes understanding and strengthens personal responsibility. Decision-makers support their teams in crucial learning processes and adapt the strategy flexibly depending on feedback. In doing so, it is important to record the individual level of knowledge and utilise both direct communication and digital tools in a targeted manner.
KIROI Step 1: Understanding and applying the basics of knowledge transfer
The first step in a systematic approach such as KIROI focusses on capturing and structuring knowledge. Decision-makers should start by precisely analysing the existing knowledge resources and the needs of the target groups. In practice, this means, for example
- A medium-sized consulting company carried out a knowledge audit to identify various pools of experts and gaps.
- One manufacturing company used workshops with open discussion rounds to visualise and utilise the knowledge gained from employees' experience.
- A service provider introduced an internal online platform that provides quick access to best practices and frequently asked questions to make knowledge scalable.
This approach supports the transfer of knowledge by creating structures and enabling targeted dialogue. This not only provides knowledge, but also supports and continuously improves the learning process.
Variety of methods for effective knowledge transfer
The selection of suitable methods is central to KIROI step 1. Decision-makers should combine different formats in order to take into account the different learning styles and needs of their teams. Here are some tried and tested examples from practice:
- An IT company relies on a combination of short video tutorials and subsequent face-to-face workshops to impart new software knowledge in a practical way.
- In the healthcare sector, case studies are used, which are analysed and discussed together so that complex interrelationships are better understood.
- In large organisations, communities of practice are established in which experts regularly share their knowledge and benefit from each other through peer learning.
In addition to the pure transfer of knowledge, the combination of such methods primarily promotes interactive exchange. Through dialogue and joint reflection, commitment and understanding increase, which supports the transfer of knowledge in the long term.
Practical tips for decision-makers in the first step
In order to master the step towards effective knowledge transfer, managers can provide the following impetus:
- Create a clear knowledge map that summarises key topics, sources and experts.
- Involve everyone involved in the dialogue at an early stage and promote a culture of open communication.
- Use digital tools for support, for example for knowledge sharing or documentation.
For example, one technology company started an internal webinar series to share knowledge easily and up-to-date across departments. At the same time, management motivated employees to actively provide feedback and ask questions. This not only increased transparency, but also the acceptance of new content.
BEST PRACTICE with one customer (name hidden due to NDA contract) As a first step, the customer implemented a digital knowledge database combined with weekly Q&A sessions. This allowed valuable information to be distributed quickly while reducing uncertainty among the workforce. The open atmosphere accompanied the change process positively and supported the transfer of knowledge at all levels.
My analysis
Knowledge transfer forms the basis for sustainably successful changes and decisions in companies. KIROI Step 1 for decision-makers clearly shows that without structured and target group-orientated communication, important information often remains unused. Decision-makers support individual learning paths with methodological diversity and transparent processes, thereby promoting understanding and personal initiative. Especially in complex projects, it is helpful to focus on dialogue and the right technology. This allows knowledge to be shared effectively, developed further and put into practice.
Further links from the text above:
Techniques of knowledge transfer - Dictionary
Knowledge management: definition and methods
Imparting knowledge: 7 ingenious tricks
Knowledge transfer: meaning, methods and practical examples
For more information and if you have any questions, please contact Contact us or read more blog posts on the topic Artificial intelligence here.
Deutsch 
English (UK)