Organisational memory in project-based firms: development of an ontology framework model

Organisational memory (OM) has been widely studied in functional organisations but remains underexplored in project-based organisations (PBOs), leading to missed opportunities for learning and improvement. This study develops an ontology framework model of OM management tailored to PBOs. Using a categorical literature review, case studies, and semi-structured interviews with PBO participants, the research identifies key factors influencing effective OM management. The findings establish that leadership, technological sophistication, and organisational structure and culture are among the crucial factors for effective OM management. It also confirms that OM relies on the combination of individual employees' personal knowledge, experiences, and management styles. The framework can be used as a guideline for PBOs to preserve their OM from past projects and leverage it in future projects, thereby saving time, costs, energy, and other resources. The study also recommends future research to diversify and extrapolate the model for wider applications.