The model shown above is mainly built upon two elements, i.e. source and receiver. This
has been extracted from the simple communication theory introduced by Deustch (1952).
Besides, the knowledge conversion model introduced by Nonaka and Takeuchi (1995)
has also been used in this process model to describe different modes of knowledge
transfer. These modes can be informal or formal, personal or impersonal (Holtham and
Courtney, 1998). ‘Socialisation’ is a great example for informal modes where individuals
or teams have unscheduled meetings, friendly discussions, etc. However, such
mechanisms may involve certain amounts of knowledge waste due to an absence of a
formal recording of knowledge. Formal transfer mechanisms appear to be more effective
than informal mechanisms; although, according to Alavi and Leidner (2001), it may
inhibit creativity and innovation. Personnel transfer is a formal, personal mechanism of
knowledge transfer. Such transfers, common in Japan, immerse team members in the
routines of other members, thereby allowing access to the partner's stock of tacit
knowledge (Fahey and Prusak, 1998).