In this paper an agent-based model is proposed in which effects
of collective cognition are represented via the operazionalization of the construct
of collective memory. The model is aimed at representing an evolving local
networks of suppliers and final firms competing among them, making alliances and
selling products on the market in the presence of environmental instability. A set of
hypothesis has been tested in order to evaluate the influence on network’s
performances of collective memory.
Through the proposed model, this article illustrates advantages and limitations of
computer based models to investigate collective cognition. The extent to which
computational approaches can be used to model collective cognitive constructs
such as collective memory and learning and their influence on social action is
examined. Finally, implications for research and practice on organizational
cognition resulting from a social computation view are outlined
