The Value of Oral History in Corporate History Projects
Adding Depth and Personal Perspective to the Story
When it comes to preserving a company's history, written records and documents are important, but they only tell part of the story. To truly understand a company's past and its impact on the world, it's essential to also capture the stories and memories of the people who lived it. That's where oral history comes in. By collecting and preserving the oral histories of employees, founders, and other key figures, you can add depth and personal perspective to your corporate history project, creating a more nuanced and engaging narrative. Here's why oral history is such a valuable tool in corporate history projects.
We take as example the recent corporate history book that celebrates Cher-Mère, a successful health and wellness company that we were commissioned to work on
Oral History Captures the Personal Experiences of Key Figures
One of the main benefits of collecting oral histories is that it allows you to capture the personal experiences of key figures in your company's history. This includes not only the stories of the company's founders and leaders, but also the memories of rank-and-file employees who were there from the beginning or played a key role in the company's development. These personal stories can provide valuable insights into the company's culture, values, and decision-making processes, and help to bring the company's history to life in a way that documents and records cannot.
Oral History Helps to Preserve Cultural Memory
In addition to capturing personal experiences, oral history can also help to preserve cultural memory. This includes not only the culture of the company, but also the broader cultural context in which the company operated. By collecting oral histories, you can gain a deeper understanding of the social, political, and economic forces that shaped the company's development, and how the company itself impacted its environment. This can help to create a more complete and nuanced narrative of the company's history.
Oral History Can Enhance Engagement and Connections
In addition to the research value of oral history, collecting and sharing these stories can also enhance engagement and connections within the company. By interviewing employees and key figures, you can create a sense of community and connection among your team, and help to build a shared understanding of your company's history and culture. Sharing these stories with a wider audience can also help to foster a sense of pride and ownership among employees, and can be a powerful tool for building a positive company culture.
As you can see, collecting oral histories is an essential part of any corporate history project. It allows you to capture the personal experiences and memories of key figures, preserve cultural memory, and enhance engagement and connections within your company. If you're considering a corporate history project, be sure to include oral history as a key component. The added depth and personal perspective it provides will make for a more engaging and meaningful final product.