The dynamics of managing evolving university-industry linkages

Abstract

Linkages between university and industry are known to facilitate economic development on a national level as well as render benefits to universities and industry. As a result, there has been growing attention on the success factors of such collaborations. Despite such prominence, our understanding of the evolution of these factors in university-industry relationships remains limited. Building on extant research, this study contributes to our theoretical and managerial understanding by examining the interplay between relationship characteristics (trust, understanding and communication) and relevant outcome variables across three relationship phases (initiation, engagement and maintenance). The results indicate a consistent yet complex web of interactions, with characteristics in each phase impacting not only the outcome in that phase but also the respective characteristics in the following phase. Similarly, in later states of the evolution of the relationship, the outcomes in each phase directly fosters the relationship characteristics and outcomes of the following phase. The paper concludes with key managerial implications and future research directions.