DIKW PYRAMID

 

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Data, Information, Knowledge, and Wisdom (DIKW) Pyramid

The image you provided illustrates the DIKW pyramid, a model that represents how we transform raw data into a deeper understanding and, ultimately, wisdom. This is often referred to as a "hierarchy of understanding."

• Data (Raw): At the base of the pyramid, data is just raw, unstructured facts and figures. Think of it as a collection of numbers, words, or symbols without any inherent meaning on their own. For example, a single temperature reading like "72°" is just data.

• Information (Data + Analysis/Processing): The next level is information, which is data that has been processed, organized, and given context. This provides a framework for understanding the data. For example, knowing that "the temperature is 72°F in the living room" turns the raw data into information.

• Knowledge (Information + Context/Experience): Knowledge builds on information by adding experience and deeper understanding. It's about knowing how to use the information and recognizing patterns. For example, if you know that the living room is usually 72°F at this time of day, you have knowledge about the pattern.

• Wisdom (Knowledge + Insight/Judgement): At the peak of the pyramid, wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge and make sound judgments. It involves insight and understanding the bigger picture. For example, knowing that the temperature is 72°F and that this is a normal pattern, but recognizing that it's a good day to open the windows to let in fresh air—that's wisdom. It's about acting with foresight and purpose.

The arrow on the left side of the pyramid, labeled "Process = Learning; Ability = Intelligence," highlights the journey from the bottom to the top. This transformation is a process of learning that requires intelligence to move from simple facts to a higher state of understanding and application.