What is the SECI model? An easy-to-understand explanation of the basic concepts of the knowledge creation process

Explanation of IT Terms

What is the SECI Model?

The SECI model is a framework that describes the knowledge creation process within an organization. It was developed by Ikujiro Nonaka and Hirotaka Takeuchi. SECI stands for Socialization, Externalization, Combination, and Internalization. These four modes represent the different ways in which knowledge is created, shared, and utilized by individuals and groups.

Socialization

Socialization is the process of sharing tacit knowledge through direct interaction and experience. Tacit knowledge refers to the skills, experiences, and intuitions that individuals possess, but find difficult to articulate or codify. This mode emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication, observation, and imitation. Socialization involves activities such as apprenticeships, mentorship programs, and group discussions where individuals learn from one another.

Externalization

Externalization is the process of converting tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge. Explicit knowledge is codified and can be easily transferred and shared. In this mode, individuals articulate their tacit knowledge by expressing it in a comprehensible and accessible form, such as writing reports, creating documents, or giving presentations. Through externalization, tacit knowledge is made explicit and can be communicated and understood by others.

Combination

Combination refers to the process of integrating explicit knowledge from various sources to create new knowledge. It involves synthesizing different pieces of explicit knowledge, organizing them, and creating new insights or solutions. Combination can occur through activities such as document sharing, team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative projects. It enables individuals and groups to leverage existing knowledge and build on top of it to generate new ideas, approaches, or products.

Internalization

Internalization is the process of incorporating explicit knowledge into individual tacit knowledge. It is the reverse of externalization and involves learning by doing or experiencing. In this mode, individuals internalize explicit knowledge by applying it in practical situations, reflecting on the outcomes, and incorporating it into their tacit knowledge. Internalization can occur through activities such as on-the-job training, simulations, or hands-on experiments. It allows individuals to internalize and personalize explicit knowledge, making it part of their individual repertoire.

In conclusion, the SECI model provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the creation and sharing of knowledge within organizations. It emphasizes the importance of both tacit and explicit knowledge, as well as the importance of social interaction, communication, and collaboration. By leveraging the SECI model, organizations can foster a culture of knowledge creation and innovation, enabling them to stay competitive in a rapidly changing world.

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