Evaluating University Technology Transfer Offices

Abstract

Programs to transfer technology from universities and government agencies to the private sector are a cornerstone of economic development in the US economy. Most US universities today have a centralized technology transfer office which handles all of their intellectual property; however, the question remains “is this the most effective means of technology transfer?” The evidence is mixed or minimal for all other measurements including licensing and spin-offs, but suggests a bottleneck remains in the commercialization of new technologies. The author posits a new operational model and strategic principles university technology transfer offices should employ.