Enhancing Team-based Transactive Memory Systems through Mobile Instant Messaging: a Developing Country Perspective

Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) allows users to exchange multimedia information, such as texts, images, and videos with family and friends. MIM applications are typically free-ofcharge and intended for casual, playful communications, allowing users to engage in one-onone or group interactions. Based on Wegner's Transactive Memory Systems (TMS), the study focuses on how MIM can be used to enhance existing team-based TMS in the workplace. Using data collected from 75 Thai employees working in teams, the results show that teambased TMS emphasizes specialized knowledge and team coordination, while MIM promotes knowledge acceptance. The findings also reveal that the functionalities of MIM and the existing organizational ICTs help build mobile TMS, which in turn enhances team-based TMS. The implication of this study supports the economical use of MIM as a communication tool that exists alongside traditional ICTs in a developing country.