The impact of transactive memory systems on IS development teams' coordination, communication, and performance

The high complexity nature of current contemporary software makes team a popular work style in information system development (ISD) projects. ISD is a knowledge intensive process which requires members to exchange and coordinate knowledge resources effectively. However, it is reported that ISD projects often failed because of coordination breakdown and insufficient knowledge exchange resulting from ineffective communication among team members. This highlights the importance of understanding how to enhance those knowledge-oriented teamwork activities. Drawing on this issue, this study aims at exploring the critical role of transactive memory system (TMS) on teamwork processes and performance. Data collected from 236 IS personnel confirmed our hypotheses that having a mature TMS can effectively enhance performance directly, and indirectly through improving communication and coordination process. Lastly, discussions of the results and implications toward practitioners and academia are provided.

► Many ISD projects fail due to poor coordination and insufficient communication.
► This study aims at exploring the role of TMS on teamwork processes and performance.
► TMS can effectively enhance performance directly.
► TMS can improve communication and coordination process.