What Is Known Unknowns?

A Known Unknown refers to areas where we are aware of a gap in our knowledge. While we know there is something we don’t know, we may not yet have the specifics or full understanding. This concept involves recognising the existence of an uncertainty without fully comprehending it.  For instance, you might know a new software update is coming (known aspect), but the exact impact on your system remains unclear(unknown aspect).

What Is The Logic Behind Known Unknowns?

The idea behind known unknowns is simple: being aware of what you don’t know allows you to take action. Some philosophers and experts argue about the best way to address known unknowns, debating whether logical reasoning or practical approaches are most effective. When you realise there’s something missing, you can plan for it, research it, or find solutions. It’s like acknowledging a problem before you can fix it.

By knowing there are gaps, you can prepare to fill them. Using evidence such as data, research, or facts helps ensure that your approach to addressing known unknowns is reliable and effective. In project management, known unknowns refer to risks that are acknowledged but not fully understood, allowing teams to prepare for potential challenges by asking the right questions to fill knowledge gaps. If you know you’re missing information, you can plan to get that information and be ready for what comes next.

What Is The Known Unknowns Matrix?

The Known Unknown Matrix divides knowledge into four areas and is closely related to frameworks like the Johari Window, developed by Joseph Luft, which explores self-awareness and knowledge sharing. This matrix serves as a systematic course for navigating knowledge and uncertainty, making it a valuable tool for both personal and professional growth within a company. It includes the following:

1. Known knowns: Things both you and others are aware of, like your skills or job title. These are shared, public aspects of your personality or expertise, often presented during meetings or performance reviews.
2. Known unknowns: Things others know about you, but you don’t, such as unconscious behaviours. In a company, these can be uncovered and presented through feedback or collaborative meetings, impacting how others perceive you and influencing decision-making.
3. Unknown knowns: Things you know about yourself, but others don’t, such as hidden fears or motivations. These insights may be presented to others when appropriate, but often remain private, shaping your actions and decisions.
4. Unknown unknowns: Things neither you nor others know, representing new discoveries or unexplored potential. In organizations, these unknowns are often surfaced through research, brainstorming sessions, or meetings, and can lead to innovation when presented and discussed openly.

By using this matrix as a structured course, companies can identify knowledge gaps, facilitate effective meetings, and ensure that critical information is presented to the right stakeholders, ultimately supporting better strategic decisions.

How To Spot The Known Unknowns And Blind Spots?

There are four ways to identify “Known Unknowns,” which help you recognise knowledge gaps, crucial for informed decisions and preparing for uncertainties. Dealing with uncertainty directly is essential when identifying known unknowns, as it leads to more accurate interpretation and better decision-making. Here’s how to spot them:

1. Look for moments of doubt: When you’re uncertain about something, but you know you should have a clearer answer, that’s a known unknown. It’s a feeling of recognising a gap in your knowledge.
2. Pay attention to areas you avoid: If there’s a topic or area you’ve been avoiding because you’re not sure about it, that’s likely a known unknown. You’re aware there’s something to learn, but haven’t yet explored it.
3. Recognise gaps in understanding: If there’s a moment when you feel uncertain or unsure about the details, that’s often a known unknown. It’s where you recognise there’s knowledge you lack, but it’s not completely invisible to you.
4. Keep asking “What’s missing?”: As you progress through a task or decision, keep asking yourself, “What am I not seeing? What don’t I know yet?” This helps you catch those known unknowns before they become a bigger issue.

Some known unknowns are obvious but often overlooked due to psychological blindness or cultural biases. The intended purpose of identifying these gaps is to inform decision-making processes and ensure that senior executives and teams are aware of what needs further investigation.

How To Manage The Known Unknowns?

There are four strategies to manage known unknowns and navigate uncertainty effectivelyIt can be managed in the following ways:

1. Make backup plans: Since you don’t have all the answers yet, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case things don’t go as expected. That way, if your assumptions turn out to be wrong, you’ll still be prepared.
2. Prepare for possible outcomes: Think about different scenarios where things might go differently than you expected. What will you do if things change unexpectedly? Having options ready will help you handle any surprises.
3. Anticipate potential risks: Identify areas where things could go wrong and proactively think of ways to mitigate these risks. By planning for potential setbacks, you’ll be in a stronger position to deal with challenges without feeling caught off guard.
4. Build a support network: Surround yourself with a strong network of mentors, colleagues, or experts you can rely on during uncertain times. A trusted support system can provide guidance, feedback, and encouragement, making it easier to handle unexpected challenges.