Evolving knowledge integration and absorptive capacity perspectives upon university‐industry interaction within a university

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report upon an initiative within a case study UK university to facilitate service innovation in small firms. The paper aims to outline how explicit use of such concepts has the potential to enhance the effectiveness of this form of university‐industry interaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers how an evaluative inquiry approach could be used to assess the contribution of explicit consideration of knowledge integration and absorptive capacity in university‐industry interaction.

Findings

The paper reveals how the study has been constructed and how the planned use of personal reflective tools and structured group interactions may enhance the consideration and utilisation of the key concepts by the university and SME clients.

Research limitations/implications

The paper brings a degree of theorising upon university‐industry interaction that is largely absent in reported studies. It adds to the knowledge/cognitive perspective upon small business support.

Practical implications

The value of evaluative inquiry and explicit use of knowledge concepts in assisting the evolution of interactions with small businesses are highlighted.

Originality/value

The paper presents a compelling case for an innovative approach towards facilitating collaboration.

Citation

Sparrow, J., Tarkowski, K., Lancaster, N. and Mooney, M. (2009), "Evolving knowledge integration and absorptive capacity perspectives upon university‐industry interaction within a university", Education + Training, Vol. 51 No. 8/9, pp. 648-664. https://doi.org/10.1108/00400910911005217