Conceptualizing the Essence of Inter-Organizational Learning (Case Study: The Shared Project of Anti-Contraband and Currency Smuggling)

This article aimed to present a description for inter-organizational learning essence.

Phenomenological method was applied to analyze   data which were acquired from semi-structured interviews with the individuals experienced in The Shared Project of Anti-Contraband and Currency Smuggling.

Results show that the substance of a phenomenon is perceived when the following factors are present: 1) sharing, optimizing, and localizing, 2) the perception of the success of a project, 3) collecting feedback, and monitoring and modifying the process. The specifications of a phenomenon include trust building, reducing resistance, and strengthening a perception based on public interest. The pervasive factors of a phenomenon include developing virtual collaboration and developing informal communication. The outcomes of a phenomenon include utilizing unused potentials and improving effectiveness as well as efficiency. Finally, the deficiencies of a phenomenon include evading, and lack of systematic relationships, challenges of shared responsibilities, and no regard for long-term planning.

Originality:

 Using quantitative investigations in the private sector organizations, former studies in this domain have only led to the evaluation of the impacts of scattered factors, which in turn, have created limited understanding of the essence of the phenomenon and even the generalization of the factors presented in the causal relationship of the phenomenon. However, by analyzing content and conceptual aspects of inter-organizational learning phenomenon in state organizations with various lines of service and by presenting rich descriptions and a comprehensive conceptual framework, the present study has provided a vaster and more suitable range for the understanding of this phenomenon.