Memory in the small: an application to provide task-based organizational memory for a scientific community

Many forms of organizational memory must exist embedded within the organizational processes and tasks. This paper argues that “memory-in-the small”, memory utilized in the performance of an organizational task, can serve as an effective performance support mechanism. By basing organizational memory upon organizational tasks (and basing task support upon organizational memory), organizational memory systems can provide additional and necessary support services for organizations and communities. As an example of memory-in-the-small, this paper describes a software application called the ASSIST, that combines organizational memory with task performance for a scientific community. The ASSIST utilizes and stores the collective memory of astrophysicists about data analysis and is used world-wide by astrophysicists. The paper also considers the theoretical and architectural issues involved when combining organizational memory with task performance