The role of experience of academics in university engagement: Looking at university-industry linkages

Abstract

University-industry linkages (UILs) can generate significant tangible and intangible benefits by combining a university’s specialized knowledge and human resources with industry expertise. Individuals contribute skills, knowledge, competencies and experience to such linkages and are the key drivers for determining their success. While having prior experience in UILs has been discussed as important to achieve substantial UIL, literature is yet to understand why this is the case, considering in particular the behavioral changes university representatives and academic actors make as they gain such experience. This change in strategies and mindset is an entrepreneurial one. In terms of the book entrepreneurial universities are also seen as engaged Universities. Based on an interview series the impact individual experience has on project and relationship success, as well as related changes in three levels, strategic, personal and operational, are discussed, leading to theoretical and managerial implications.