In what way is the knowledge needed to operate complex devices different from the knowledge neede to acquire and configure them?

We don't usually answer homework-like questions, but I like this one... ;)

Think about it like this:

What's the difference between enjoying playing video games, and developing innovative video games?

What's the difference between enjoying watching a movie, and making a great movie?

What's the difference between knowing how to drive a car, and being an auto mechanic?

I think you can draw many parallels from these examples.