Engagement through communication: Communicating scientific knowledge to SMEs

Abstract

In this chapter, we work from the assumption that university engagement can be fostered by addressing the dissemination of scientific knowledge as a communication process, and we explore how university engagement can be encouraged through the communication of scientific knowledge to SMEs (small and mediumsized enterprises). First, a literature review allows for the identification of wellknown barriers to the dissemination of scientific knowledge to SMEs. Second, an empirical study of the ‘situation’ of eight Danish SMEs provides insights into their situation (circumstances, barriers and potentials) in relation to scientific knowledge, which must be taken into account in attempts to communicate scientific knowledge to SMEs. Based on this analysis, we discuss solutions and outline some communicative principles that can contribute with a solution-oriented perspective on how communicating scientific knowledge to SMEs can foster university engagement.