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Knowledge Transfer

What is Knowledge Transfer?

Knowledge transfer refers to the deliberate process of sharing information, skills, experience, and expertise from one individual or group to another. It ensures that critical know‑how doesn’t stay locked inside one person's head but becomes an accessible, shared resource across an organisation.

Detailed Explanation

Knowledge transfer goes beyond handing over files—it involves methods such as shadowing, mentoring, documentation, workshops, or peer learning. It covers both explicit knowledge (e.g. instructions, templates) and tacit knowledge (e.g. decision‑making insights, techniques). Effective knowledge transfer helps teams avoid duplication, keep continuity when team members leave, and speeds up onboarding of new staff.

For example, an experienced marketing lead might record campaign strategies and creative insights to help the next person step quickly into the role.

Use in HR or Business Context

HR plays a key role in embedding knowledge transfer into everyday workflows. This might include setting up mentorship programmes, encouraging social learning platforms, facilitating job rotations, or collecting post‑project retrospectives. These practices boost team resilience, preserve institutional capabilities, and reduce dependency on specific individuals for critical knowledge.

Why It Matters Today

In today’s fluid and hybrid work environments, knowledge transfer is more important than ever. With employees moving between roles or organisations—and many working remotely—capturing and sharing learning becomes vital to avoid losing vital know‑how. Systems that support seamless knowledge flow help maintain continuity, empower teams, and foster ongoing innovation.