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Multiple Perspectives on the Challenges for Knowledge Transfer between Higher Education Institutions and Industry

University of Bradford, UK, n.j.lockett{at}bradford.ac.uk

Ron Kerr

University of Bradford, UK, kerrron{at}fastmail.fm

Sarah Robinson

University of Bradford, UK, s.k.robinson{at}open.ac.uk

Knowledge transfer (KT) has been identified as an essential element of innovation, driving competitive advantage in increasingly knowledge-driven economies, and as a result recent UK Government reports have sought to increase awareness of the importance of KT within higher education institutions (HEIs).There is therefore a need for relevant empirical research that examines, from multiple perspectives, how KT policy is translated into practice within HEI contexts.This article responds to this need by presenting an in-depth qualitative case study based on over 50 semi-structured interviews with university-based academic and non-academic participants and representatives of small firms involved in InfoLab21, a high profile `centre of excellence' for research, development and commercialization of information and communications technology (ICT) in north-west England, UK. The study considers what the key practices of KT are and what promotes and/or hinders their development. Four overarching themes are identified: (1) motivation and reward mechanisms; (2) process management and evaluation; (3) clustering and brokerage; and (4) trust and bridge building. Each theme is considered from multiple perspectives and areas for further research are suggested.

Key Words: knowledge transfer • regional policy • technology transfer • universities

International Small Business Journal, Vol. 26, No. 6, 661-681 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/0266242608096088


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