Characteristics of Knowledge

Several characteristics of knowledge have been described:

Knowledge is contextual and it can be re-used
Benefits of knowledge obtained only if it is applied
The values of knowledge may change over time
Knowledge has to be renewed or maintained
It can be difficult to transfer, capture and distribute knowledge
It is developed through learning processes
Depends on memory, past experience, expertise, knowledge transfer mechanisms, opportunities
Facilitates effectiveness and ‘sense-making’
Knowledge enables higher learning
Knowledge creation and utilization is enhanced with technology.

Comparison of information and knowledge by Sveiby (1997):

Information	Knowledge
Static	Dynamic
Independent of the individual	Dependent on individual
Explicit	Tacit
Digital	Analogue
Easy to duplicate	Must be re-create
Easy to broadcast	Face-to-face mainly
No instrinctic meaning	Meaning has to be personally assigned