What does Tacit Knowledge refer to in Lean practices?

Tacit Knowledge in Lean practices refers to the unspoken, implicit knowledge gained through personal experience and insights that individuals acquire over time. This type of knowledge is often difficult to articulate or document; it embodies the skills, intuitions, and perceptions that employees develop in their roles. In the context of Lean, leveraging tacit knowledge is crucial because it enhances problem-solving, fosters continuous improvement, and drives innovation by tapping into the unique expertise and insights of team members.

In Lean environments, recognizing and valuing tacit knowledge can lead to better performance and process efficiency, as it encourages collaboration and communication among team members to share their insights and experiences. This kind of knowledge often complements explicit knowledge, which is more formal and easily documented, thus creating a more holistic approach to Lean practices.