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Organizational unlearning as a process: What we know, what we don’t know, what we should know

Author

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  • Adrian Klammer

    (University of Liechtenstein)

  • Thomas Grisold

    (University of St. Gallen)

  • Nhien Nguyen

    (Norwegian University of Science and Technology)

  • Shih-wei Hsu

    (National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University)

Abstract

Although the field of organizational unlearning has recently gained increased interest, its conceptual foundations and raison d’être are still debated. In this review, we aim to revisit various discourses and arguments to advance the understanding of organizational unlearning in management and organization studies. Using an integrative literature review approach with systematic elements, we examine the existing body of research on organizational unlearning. We review the literature from different perspectives, focusing on a process-based understanding in terms of why and how organizations intentionally discard knowledge. Based on our review, we develop an integrative framework that portrays organizational unlearning as a dynamically unfolding process over time. We propose implications and offer research directions that will allow future researchers to develop a more profound understanding of the concept.

Suggested Citation

  • Adrian Klammer & Thomas Grisold & Nhien Nguyen & Shih-wei Hsu, 2025. "Organizational unlearning as a process: What we know, what we don’t know, what we should know," Management Review Quarterly, Springer, vol. 75(3), pages 2147-2171, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:manrev:v:75:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s11301-024-00430-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s11301-024-00430-3
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness
    • L20 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - General
    • M10 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - General
    • O30 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - General

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