Methodological approach to managing tacit knowledge at the university

Introduction. Addressing the methodological deficit in the field of tacit knowledge management within the context of higher education is essential for effectively managing the development of a university’s intellectual capital. Aim. The present research aims to develop a scientific and methodological framework that facilitates the systematisation of work with tacit knowledge and ensures the sustainable growth of performance in educational and scientific processes. Methodology and research methods. The research is grounded in the theoretical principles of knowledge management, employing knowledge flow modelling and a multi-level knowledge management approach to analyse the tacit knowledge environment within a university. The empirical foundation of the study was established using secondary data obtained from publicly available sources of educational organisations, alongside primary data concerning the activities of academic departments over four academic years (from 2021 to 2025 inclusive). Data processing was conducted using descriptive statistical methods. Results. The modelling of knowledge flows within the university revealed a statistically significant correlation with the key performance indicators of structural units. This underscores the importance of managing tacit knowledge, which is regarded in this study as the foundational stage for generating new knowledge. Within the research framework, the stages of knowledge management were mapped onto a multi-level structure encompassing the individual, departmental, university, and sectoral levels. Analysis of the empirical data confirmed the positive impact of applying knowledge management mechanisms on the performance of academic departments. Scientific novelty. The scientific novelty lies in the methodological justification of the structural unit (department) as the fundamental level for managing tacit knowledge within a university, thereby clarifying its localisation and transfer mechanisms. Practical significance. The practical significance resides in the identification and proposal of mechanisms for working with the implicit dimension of knowledge, the effectiveness of which has been demonstrated.