Memory Systems In Organizations: An Empirical Investigation Of Mechanisms For Knowledge Collection, Storage And Access

TLDR

Organizational memory is examined in multi‑unit organizations. The study investigates how organizations collect, store, and access experiential knowledge. A framework for organizational memory in geographically distributed settings was developed and empirically evaluated in a multinational consulting firm. The study identified multiple memory systems—social networks, knowledge centers, and computer‑based systems—and discussed their characteristics and perceived effectiveness.

Abstract

This research examines the concept of organizational memory in the context of multi‐unit organizations. It addresses the question: how do organizations collect, store and provide access to their experiential knowledge? I develop a framework for organizational memory in geographically distributed settings based on the concept of organizational memory systems and empirically assess the usefulness of this framework in the context of a multinational, business consulting organization. Multiple memory systems were identified, including social networks, knowledge centers and various computer‐based systems. I present and discuss findings with respect to the characteristics and perceived effectiveness of these memory systems.