<p>Knowledge creation either in isolation or joint with another person, using either face to face or internet contact and incorporating internet search ability is analyzed. Both a conceptual phase and a technical phase of research are analyzed, allowing workers to choose endogenously their mode of communication. In addition to formal knowledge, tacit knowledge plays an essential role in the knowledge production process. Lead time for face to face communication plays a key role in the optimal choice of communication mode. The sink point is inefficient. Our framework is applied to pandemic restrictions on face to face communication.</p>