Knowledge Sharing Theory

Mathieu Weggeman is renowned for his pioneering work in knowledge management and knowledge sharing within organizations, particularly in knowledge-intensive and innovation-driven environments.​ 

1. Knowledge as Personal and Contextual

Weggeman distinguishes between explicit knowledge (easily documented and shared) and tacit knowledge (personal, experience-based, and difficult to articulate). Tacit knowledge requires trust and interaction for sharing, not just systems or documents.

2. Attitude: Willingness to Share

According to Weggeman:

• Knowledge sharing is not just about having the right tools, but people must be willing to share.
  
  

• A positive attitude towards sharing—openness, generosity, and a sense of collaboration—is essential.
  
  

• Motivation plays a key role: professionals must feel safe and valued to share their knowledge, without fear of losing status or job security.
  
  

He often points out that “knowledge flows where it is respected,” meaning a culture of appreciation is vital for sharing behavior.

3. Experience: Learning by Doing

• Weggeman emphasizes that experiential knowledge (gained through practice) is crucial in professional environments.
  
  

• Senior professionals often hold deep tacit knowledge that cannot be transferred via manuals or databases but must be shared through mentoring, collaboration, and storytelling.
  
  

• Organizations need to facilitate communities of practice where people can observe, interact, and exchange stories—this is where real learning and knowledge sharing happens.
  
  

4. Management Style

He promotes a “professional organization” model where:

• Managers trust professionals to take responsibility.
  
  

• Knowledge sharing is supported through autonomy, respect, and intrinsic motivation, not control or surveillance.
  
  

• The right attitude and sharing behavior are embedded in the organizational culture, not enforced by rules