Knowledge application is when available knowledge is used to make decisions and perform tasks through direction and routines.

Direction refers to the process through which the individual possessing the knowledge directs the action of another individual without transferring to that individual the knowledge underlying the direction. It is more that an individual who possesses knowledge advises another. For example, direction is the process used when a production worker calls an expert to ask her how to solve a particular problem with a machine and then proceeds to solve the problem based on the instructions given by the expert.

Routines involve the utilization of knowledge embedded in procedures, rules, norms and processes that guide future behavior.

Both direction and routines are applicable to either tacit or explicit knowledge. Application does not require the person applying the knowledge to understand it.