A MODEL PROPOSAL REGARDING ANTECEDENTS AND OUTCOMES OF UNLEARNING: CASE STUDY OF AN R&D FIRM FROM TURKEY

Abstract

In the literature, the subject of unlearning is discussed less than organisational learning and learning organisation. Thinking the dynamics of today’s economy and the business world, having an unlearning ability is especially important for firms that focus on innovation and sustainable development. This research aims to explore the process of unlearning in an innovative company with a high capability of R&D, to determine the type of unlearning and its antecedents affecting the unlearning process, and also to find the positive outcomes of unlearning for the company and to establish a model as a result of these findings. In line with the purpose of the research, this investigation was undertaken by using the case study method and doing semi-structured interviews with company officials in an R&D company that offers advanced technological products and services to the defence, environment and energy industries in Turkey. According to the research findings, it is seen that company A can unlearn and the processes related to unlearning. When the findings obtained in terms of the unlearning process and its sub-dimensions are combined, it is noteworthy that the company sees unlearning at the centre of development and improvement. A model was proposed through the findings.