Organizational Unlearning: An Analytical Literature Review

Abstract

This report sets out to provide an analytical review and commentary along the literature about unlearning in organizations (UO). Since this issue has managerial importance, this paper provides significant motivation for deepening our understanding of the unlearning. The review covers the period from 1981 to 2013 inclusive and focused on organizational management. Theoretical and empirical works are analyzed from the perspective of content focus. Three research themes are discussed: Antecedents (levels, process and facilitator), dimensions (cognitive, behavioral and contextual) and consequences (benefits and harms) of UO. The paper also concerns unanswered questions in each trend. Finally, an outline of topics requiring further research is offered.