Tiny Tool: Knowledge Discovery Canvas

Knowledge Discovery Canvas was developed by Oliver Ding in early 2022 for developing tacit knowledge. It led to a book draft around the theme. Later, he used the tool for various purposes, going beyond its original intention. 

Today, its functions include developing tacit knowledge, guiding knowledge projects, grasping concepts, exploring thematic spaces, mapping knowledge systems, developing knowledge strategies, and reflecting on the social landscape.

It also inspired several relevant modifications. A 2025 book draft, Castle and Forest: The Landscape of Concept-related Knowledge Engagement, serves as a follow-up to Knowledge Discovery. While it still focuses on the Knowledge Discovery Canvas and related tools, the primary theme shifts from tacit knowledge to the broader knowledge ecosystem.

In this article, he introduces the Knowledge Discovery Canvas as a Tiny Tool, a member of the Tiny Tool series published by Possible Press. More details about the canvas and related creations can be found in his book drafts.

The Knowledge Discovery Canvas is an application of Thematic Space Theory, which is hosted by TALE (Thematic Analysis Learning Engagement), a knowledge center founded in 2023.