Knowledge Transfer

Knowledge transfer involves passing critical skills, insights, and expertise from experienced employees to newer or less-experienced team members. It is essential for succession planning, workforce continuity, and maintaining organizational intelligence.

HR teams facilitate knowledge transfer through mentorship programs, documentation of standard operating procedures, and collaborative learning initiatives. A well-structured knowledge transfer strategy minimizes knowledge loss and strengthens business resilience.

What are the 4 stages of knowledge transfer?

The four key stages of knowledge transfer are:

  1. Knowledge Creation – Identifying or generating relevant knowledge.
  2. Knowledge Capture – Documenting and organizing the knowledge for transfer.
  3. Knowledge Sharing – Communicating the knowledge to others (e.g., via training, meetings, documents).

Knowledge Application – Using the shared knowledge effectively in the new context or by the recipient.

What is a KT plan?

A KT plan (Knowledge Transfer plan) is a structured document that outlines how knowledge will be transferred from one individual or team to another. It includes:

  • What knowledge needs to be transferred
  • Who is transferring and receiving it
  • How it will be shared (e.g., documents, training sessions, demos)
  • Timeline for the transfer
  • Resources and tools needed

A KT plan is commonly used during employee transitions, project handovers, or onboarding processes to ensure continuity and reduce knowledge loss.