In looking back over the history of an organization, it is easy to lose the human side of events; that is to say, a timeline cannot really express the feelings of a given era, so an understanding of motivation or rationale can be lost. An oral history, on the other hand, utilizes one-on-one conversations to capture the memories of those who experienced a given event or time firsthand, which can be especially useful in attempting to understand why and how a firm changed.
For Marts and Lundy specifically, an oral history gives an outstanding perspective on the organization’s evolution, as well as the lack thereof. The following pages demonstrate not only how Marts and Lundy transformed due to developments in leadership, technology and the political climate, but also how the firm held strong to its core values, even as the field in general changed. The conclusion we can make as a result of compiling this oral history confirms that Marts and Lundy’s identity stands independently of its current list of clients or consultants—an identity that embraces progress while retaining its distinctive character.
As you read the following pages about the past of Marts and Lundy, please recognize the political and social climate of the times in which its leaders lived and worked. Read More
An Introduction
