Updating TM when packages are not used

A project was sent to be translated without using the package format. What is the best way to update the TM? The project is set up to run on a monthly basis. There could be several files over the course of the month. With this in mind, does the TM store itself in Studio 2015 or should it be exported? When a new project is created, it seems the process would be to export the TM. Is this correct?