Abstract
It is common in architectural conservation organizations that some conservation knowledge is not frequently provided. This calls for the necessity to access external sources of knowledge. This paper aims to investigate the current situation of managing the external knowledge in the context of the Management of Historical Cities Bureau in Tripoli, Libya, in order to develop a theoretical framework that can function as a procedural guide for acquiring external knowledge in such organizations. Qualitative research for collecting and analyzing data was adopted. Multiple methods were used for collecting data, including interviews, observations, and a review of organizational documents. The findings demonstrated that there is insufficient information regarding local experts and current interaction with consultants is based on an ad-hoc method that does not ensure that technical experts respond in a timely manner. Also, there is insufficient knowledge exchange with relevant local organizations. Furthermore, legal, and political reasons obstructed the process of acquiring knowledge from foreign organizations. Finally, this research and the proposed framework for acquiring external knowledge in architectural conservation organizations provide a base reference for similar organizations in developing countries that intend to manage external knowledge that contributes to the process of conserving historic buildings and improving their performance.
