# Knowledge networks and discovery inputs to grid design

*Slack Consultant Study Guide · Grid Design · Last updated October 21, 2026 · https://www.certifyforce.com/study-guide/slack-consultant/grid-design/knowledge-networks-and-discovery-inputs-to-grid-design*

How discovery findings (organization size, existing workspaces, knowledge networks, culture, regulatory separation and mergers) turn into the first Enterprise org design, answering the four basic grid questions and ending in two or three options.

- Certification: Salesforce Slack Consultant
- Exam section: Grid Design
- Study guide: https://www.certifyforce.com/study-guide/slack-consultant

**Official exam objective:**

> Leverage discovery outputs to inform initial grid design recommendations.

## What the exam expects

- State the four questions every grid design answers: how many workspaces, the purpose of each, who can access each, and how members work across them.
- Name the four core discovery considerations (organization structure and size, existing Slack workspaces and usage, existing knowledge networks, cultural dynamics) and what each one informs.
- Choose surveys or focus groups to map real knowledge networks, and group teams that collaborate daily even when that cuts across the org chart.
- Translate findings such as ad hoc project workspaces, merging business units, separate admin processes or a regulated division into a workspace recommendation.
- Know the next step after discovery: draft two or three options with benefits, considerations and a recommendation.

Key terms:
- **Grid design:** the series of decisions about workspaces, channels and settings that shapes how members work in an Enterprise organization (Enterprise Grid or Enterprise+ plan).
- **Workspace:** a hub of channels that groups people, channels and apps; in an Enterprise org many workspaces connect under one org.
- **Knowledge network:** the real pattern of who shares information with whom, which may not match the org chart.
- **Primary workspace:** the workspace where a member does most of their work.

## Key facts

| Fact | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| The four grid questions | How many workspaces, purpose of each, who has access, how members work across them | [Discover Slack Enterprise Grid Design](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/designing-a-slack-enterprise-grid/discover-slack-enterprise-grid) |
| Knowledge networks inform | The grid model and policies on workspace and channel creation | [Design Workspaces on Enterprise Grid](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/slack-workspace-design/design-workspaces-on-enterprise-grid) |
| Mapping knowledge networks | Ask people who know how work happens; survey or focus group if time allows | [Design Workspaces on Enterprise Grid](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/slack-workspace-design/design-workspaces-on-enterprise-grid) |
| Org chart | The design need not match it; frequent collaborators share a workspace | [Compare Grid Design Models](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/designing-a-slack-enterprise-grid/compare-grid-design-models) |
| Moving a channel | Requires Workspace Owner or Admin on both original and destination workspaces | [Manage a workspace in an Enterprise organization](https://slack.com/help/articles/115005225987-Manage-a-workspace-in-an-Enterprise-organization) |
| Separate workspace justified by | Strong regulatory or data separation, e.g. government contracts, M&A, subsidiaries | [Consider Alternatives for Workspace Design](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/slack-workspace-design/consider-alternatives-for-workspace-design) |
| Output of discovery | Two or three options with benefits, considerations and a recommendation | [Create Grid Design Options](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/designing-a-slack-enterprise-grid/create-grid-design-options) |

## Check yourself

- Which four questions does a grid design answer at the most basic level?
- Why is an HR department list a poor input for workspace boundaries?
- When does a discovery finding justify a separate workspace?
- What does the consultant produce right after discovery?

## Sources

- [Discover Slack Enterprise Grid Design](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/designing-a-slack-enterprise-grid/discover-slack-enterprise-grid)
- [Design Workspaces on Enterprise Grid](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/slack-workspace-design/design-workspaces-on-enterprise-grid)
- [Create Grid Design Options](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/designing-a-slack-enterprise-grid/create-grid-design-options)
- [Compare Grid Design Models](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/designing-a-slack-enterprise-grid/compare-grid-design-models)
- [Consider Alternatives for Workspace Design](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/slack-workspace-design/consider-alternatives-for-workspace-design)
- [Run a Grid Design Workshop](https://trailhead.salesforce.com/content/learn/modules/validating-slack-enterprise-grid-designs-with-the-client/run-a-grid-design-workshop)
- [Manage a workspace in an Enterprise organization](https://slack.com/help/articles/115005225987-Manage-a-workspace-in-an-Enterprise-organization)

## About the full unit

The "Core concepts", "Exam traps" and "Worked scenario" sections of this unit, its 11 linked practice questions, and unlimited timed mock exams are included with the Slack Consultant pack (USD $19): https://www.certifyforce.com/practice-exams