The Knowledge Dimensions of Digital Twins: An Application of Knowledge Flow to Digital Twins

Abstract

This paper extends Nissen’s (2002) knowledge flow model by introducing three knowledge dimensions to evaluate digital twins: tacit–explicit, segregated–integrated, and private–ubiquitous. Through a review of 29 digital twin-related articles from ICIS and HICSS (2021–2024), we map how each study reflects these dimensions and explore their implications for knowledge generation and organizational learning. Our findings suggest that integrated and explicit digital twins contribute most effectively to organizational knowledge flows, while ubiquitous access enhances incremental innovation. Notably, integrated twins facilitate the emergence of counterfactual knowledge—enabling exploration of system behaviors in alternative scenarios. We propose that these knowledge dimensions offer a useful framework for assessing digital twins in both research and practice, particularly in domains seeking to foster innovation through digital modeling.