Preservation of organisational memory at the National University of Science and Technology, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Rationale of Study – The study aimed to assess the memory preservation practices at NUST. It sought to identify the records and  information sources that made up organisational memory, determine their state of preservation, establish the policies for that  preservation, and suggest best practices.

Methodology – The study was qualitative, and a case study design was utilised. Data collection utilised semi-structured interviews and  document analysis to gather qualitative data. The study purposively sampled 14 participants from a total population frame of 82. Data  was analysed thematically.

Findings – The study's main findings showed that organisational memory records are not recognised as such, nor are their importance  acknowledged in the university's survival. Organisational memory continues to be neglected and destroyed because of inadequate  information management systems, a lack of knowledge about how to preserve it, and the lack of implementation of a records management policy implies that NUST’s organisational memory is managed without reference to standards and best practice  benchmarks.

Implications – The study offers best practices for documenting, protecting, and strengthening organisational memory, as  well as for creating, putting into practice, and disseminating a preservation policy.

Originality – The study adds to the body of knowledge  on the preservation of organisational memory in state universities in Zimbabwe and emphasises the relationship between  competitive advantage, records management, memory preservation, and governance.