Manage Project Knowledge
Manage Project Knowledge is the process of using existing knowledge and creating new knowledge to achieve the project objectives and contribute to organizational learning.
Explanation
This process, introduced in the PMBOK Guide Sixth Edition, emphasizes that knowledge management is a critical responsibility of the project manager. It involves two types of knowledge: explicit knowledge (which can be codified in documents, databases, and records) and tacit knowledge (personal experience, insights, and beliefs that are harder to capture and share). Both types must be managed effectively.
The process uses inputs such as the project management plan, project documents (including the lessons learned register, stakeholder register, and resource assignments), deliverables, enterprise environmental factors, and organizational process assets. Key tools and techniques include knowledge management tools (such as knowledge repositories, social networking, and communities of practice), information management tools (such as lessons learned databases and library services), and interpersonal and team skills like active listening, facilitation, and political awareness.
The primary outputs are the lessons learned register and updates to organizational process assets. By systematically capturing and sharing knowledge, organizations avoid repeating mistakes and can leverage best practices across projects. The project manager should foster an environment of trust where team members feel comfortable sharing lessons learned, both positive and negative.
Key Points
- •Manages both explicit knowledge (documented) and tacit knowledge (experience-based)
- •Lessons learned register is a key output, updated throughout the project
- •Requires a culture of trust and openness to effectively share tacit knowledge
- •Contributes to organizational learning by updating organizational process assets
Exam Tip
The exam distinguishes between knowledge management (sharing tacit and explicit knowledge between people) and information management (storing and retrieving documented artifacts). Know both.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Lessons Learned Register
A lessons learned register is a project document used to record knowledge gained during a project so that it can be used to improve future performance on the current project and for future projects.
Lessons Learned Repository
A lessons learned repository is an organizational process asset that stores and organizes lessons learned from completed projects, making them available for use on future projects.
Project Management Plan
The project management plan is the document that describes how the project will be executed, monitored and controlled, and closed.
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