Knowledge Retention: Developing a Knowledge Transfer Plan for the Engineering Department at Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation

Abstract

The concept of knowledge must be set apart from data and information, because it is much deeper and richer than these two terms. Knowledge can be separated into two areas in order to better determine a capture method: tacit and explicit. Because the engineering field is highly steeped in knowledge, it is imperative that tacit and explicit knowledge is retained and transferred in order to develop an effective and efficient organization. When individuals leave the company, they leave with more than what they know. They also depart with relationships and contacts that are vital to performing work efficiently. As the baby boomer generation nears retirement, it is vital that this critical knowledge is transferred to other employees. The large repositories of codified data and information, popularized in the late 1990’s to early 2000’s, have proven to be an inefficient means of transferring knowledge due to the difficulties locating, interpreting or validating the information. The most effective method of capturing knowledge is to identify critical knowledge skills, determine the risk associated with losing this critical knowledge, and develop and implement a knowledge retention plan. The Tennessee Valley Authority has developed a method of capturing critical knowledge that will be tailored to Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Corporation. This four step process assesses knowledge areas, determines a capture approach, develops and implements the retention/transfer plan and evaluates the process for continued improvement. To assist in determining the critical knowledge areas at Wolf Creek a survey was administered and subsequent interviews were scheduled to identify and assess the critical knowledge areas. Only three critical knowledge areas identified by the survey and interviews will be evaluated using the four step process due to the extensive time commitment needed to assess and disposition all knowledge areas in the engineering department. These critical knowledge areas were then evaluated to determine the most appropriate method of capture and transfer. A plan was developed with actions and target dates to facilitate timely transfer of critical knowledge. This type of knowledge retention and transfer approach ensures the critical knowledge is identified up-front before it is lost due to attrition.