Knowledge workers create value by using knowledge and understanding – they think for a living, rather than carrying out physical labour. 

Managing knowledge workers effectively requires a particular approach as, while in manual work the targets and outputs are usually clear, knowledge work and its results are less tangible and therefore are harder to define, measure and evaluate. 

This evidence review summarises the best available scientific research on the principal factors that contribute to the performance of knowledge workers. We also look at definitions and the nature of knowledge work, and offer actionable recommendations on how to improve knowledge workers’ results. 

  • See the practice summary for the main insights and practical recommendations for action. 
  • See the scientific summary for our methodology and technical information on the research and study references.

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