The DIKW (data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom) Pyramid The DIKW model

The Relationship Between Explicit Knowledge and Tacit Knowledge

Ways of Knowing

The DIKW (Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom) pyramid is a flawed model that proposes data, information, knowledge, and wisdom form a pyramid, with each level building upon the previous one.

The DIKW model suggests that data can be transformed into information by adding context and structure. This information can then be used to acquire knowledge, understanding, and insight about a particular subject.

Finally, wisdom is the highest level of the pyramid, representing the ability to use knowledge and experience to make sound decisions and judgments.

Hence, “D” – data, “I” – information, “K” – knowledge, and “W” – wisdom.

However, the model is overly simplistic and does not reflect how knowledge is created and shared or the many factors influencing how people understand and use information.

Some of the main reasons why the DIKW model is flawed include the following:

• Linear progression: The model assumes a linear progression from data to information to knowledge to wisdom, which is not always accurate in real-world scenarios.
• Lack of context: The model does not account for the context in which data, information, knowledge, and wisdom are used, which can significantly affect their meaning and value.
• Ignores emotions, subjectivity, and cognitive bias: The model does not consider the role of emotions, subjective human experience, and cognitive bias, which can also play a significant role in understanding and using data, information, knowledge, and wisdom.
• Lack of consideration for power and politics: The model does not consider the role of power and politics in shaping and limiting access to data, information, knowledge, and wisdom.
• Static nature: The model does not consider the dynamic nature of knowledge and wisdom and how they change over time and with new information.

Overall, the DIKW model is limited in its ability to fully capture the complexity and nuances of how information and knowledge are created, used, and understood in real-world contexts.

I mention the model as it has become well-established despite its flaws. It is worth understanding for its instructive value but should not be taken seriously.

Resources

• The Problem with the Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom Hierarchy by David Weinberger

Posts that link to this post

•  Data, Information and Knowledge What's the difference?

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