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Article
Publication date: 3 September 2020

Understanding knowledge translation in university–industry research projects: a case analysis in the automotive sector

Paolo Canonico, Ernesto De Nito, Vincenza Esposito, Mario Pezzillo Iacono and Gianluigi Mangia

In this paper, we depart from extant conceptualisations of knowledge translation mechanisms to examine projects as a way to achieve effective knowledge transfer. Our…

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Abstract

Purpose

In this paper, we depart from extant conceptualisations of knowledge translation mechanisms to examine projects as a way to achieve effective knowledge transfer. Our empirical analysis focused on a university–industry research project in the automotive industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical analysis was based on a qualitative investigation. We analysed material collected within a research project involving a partnership between two universities and Fiat-Chrysler Automotive (FCA), a multi-brand auto manufacturer with a product range covering several different market segments. We used three data collection techniques: internal document analysis, participant observation and semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Our findings show that, in a U-I research project, goals represent a key dimension to support knowledge translation. Defining the goal implies an ongoing negotiation process, where researchers and company employees work together, in order to converge towards a shared meaning of the goal. In this sense, goal orientation and goal-based interaction have significant implications for knowledge translation processes.

Originality/value

Studies to date have focussed on the concept of knowledge translation as a way to contextualise the transfer from the source of knowledge to the receiver and to interpret the knowledge to be exchanged. This study expands the understanding of knowledge translation mechanisms in university–industry research settings. It investigates the concept of projects as powerful knowledge translation mechanism in a dynamic and longitudinal perspective. Our contribution provides insight, reflecting on how the use of projects may represent a way to facilitate knowledge transfer and build up new ideas and solutions.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 58 no. 9
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-10-2019-1515
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

  • Knowledge translation mechanisms
  • Knowledge transfer
  • University-industry research project

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Article
Publication date: 16 August 2020

Knowledge translation in project portfolio decision-making: the role of organizational alignment and information support system in selecting innovative ideas

Maria Carmela Annosi, Lucia Marchegiani and Francesca Vicentini

The present study aims to describe the micro-dynamics of decision-making that refer to knowledge translation pursued by organizational actors to see how they affect the…

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Abstract

Purpose

The present study aims to describe the micro-dynamics of decision-making that refer to knowledge translation pursued by organizational actors to see how they affect the travel of new ideas within the managerial practice of Project Portfolio Management (PPM). The study focuses on how the alignment of actors' meanings is reached at the organizational level and how they move towards a common direction by synthesizing information and negotiating meanings across the activities that constitute PPM. The study also investigates the intermediation function of information support systems in knowledge translation, which brokers information among those involved in the PPM practice.

Design/methodology/approach

This piece of research uses an inductive, qualitative research approach and a methodological combination of case study research and grounded theory to investigate and explore the processes of knowledge transfer and translation enacted by the organizational actors (both human and non-human) involved in innovation portfolio decision-making.

Findings

The findings of this research reveal the sequence of portfolio decision-making process that confirms that PPM occurs not only in a single hierarchical level or meeting, but that decisions are made across different organizational levels in a complex network of relationships where many actors are involved. We also show that the technological artefacts have an intermediate role in knowledge translation.

Research limitations/implications

Despite referring to a single case study, the results discussed in this piece of research provides insightful evidence for academics and practitioners alike. In fact, the paper discusses organizational pre-alignment and alignment as a crucial enabler of knowledge transfer. Moreover, the intermediate role of an information support system is discussed.

Practical implications

Our study highlights the positive effect on actors' meaningful participation in PPM associated with the adoption of information support systems in PPM. Moreover, our results highlight the importance of considering a horizontal perspective in the decision-making process, so that knowledge translation occurs by leveraging on all the actors' breadth of experience and expertise.

Originality/value

This research emphasizes two organizational routines termed as decision- making preparation processes that were identified as key enablers of portfolio decision-making: cross-functional pre-alignment and an information support system.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 58 no. 9
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-11-2019-1532
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

  • Knowledge translation
  • Project portfolio management
  • Innovative ideas
  • Organizational alignment
  • Knowledge transfer

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Article
Publication date: 1 September 2006

Translating knowledge to build technological competence

Clive Savory

The purpose of this paper is to present a review of literature that establishes the factors affecting the ability of an organisation to absorb and apply knowledge. The…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a review of literature that establishes the factors affecting the ability of an organisation to absorb and apply knowledge. The review aims to draw from literature on the resource‐based view of the firm, dynamic capabilities, organisational learning, knowledge management and technological innovation. The paper then seeks to present a model of knowledge translation capability synthesised from the literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

The model that is synthesised from the literature review draws on three streams of work. First, the work of Dorothy Leonard on technological capability; second, the I‐space model of knowledge assets developed by Max Boisot; and third, other work based in the organisational learning and innovation management literature. The model is illustrated using a case study of an innovation project.

Findings

The effective development of a knowledge translation capability requires attention to a network of both formal and informal structures/activities across an organisation. Together these activities constitute a dynamic capability that operates iteratively throughout the whole organisation and are an example of triple‐loop learning processes.

Practical implications

The paper will prove useful to other academics in the area of technological innovation and practising managers who can use the model to evaluate their own organisation's knowledge translation capability.

Originality/value

The advantage of the model presented is that, unlike other discussions of dynamic capability, the link between conceptual level description and real world activities has been made more distinct. By recognising relevant organisational structures and relationships, it becomes possible to takes steps to assess their performance and then manage their improvement.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 44 no. 8
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/00251740610690612
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

  • Competences
  • Knowledge management
  • Innovation

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Article
Publication date: 2 November 2015

The role of translation in cross-cultural knowledge transfer within a MNE’s business networks: A 3D-hierarchical model in China

Weihe Zhong and Tachia Chin

The purpose of this paper is to explore how translation activities influence knowledge transfer across cultures in Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs). Although…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how translation activities influence knowledge transfer across cultures in Chinese multinational enterprises (MNEs). Although translation is recognized as a critical instrument for MNEs to enhance cross-national knowledge flow, scholars have not put much emphasis on the importance of translation in international business research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a novel hierarchical framework to delineate the five major boundary-spanning functions regarding translation for knowledge transfer in China (i.e. exchanging, linking, manipulating, facilitating and intervening). Due to the paucity of relevant literature, the authors used exploratory case studies investigating two large Chinese MNEs to illustrate how individuals as boundary spanners handle the translation requirements associated with cross-cultural knowledge transmission within a MNE’s business network. The data coding approach was used to examine the assumed model.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that translators indeed play a vital role in cross-border knowledge exchanging, linking people with crucial knowledge, manipulating the flow of knowledge for protecting confidentiality, facilitating the cross-cultural interaction of various knowledge sources and intervening to prevent the occurrence of misunderstanding in MNE contexts. The authors also reveal how translators overcome the three constraints of language interpretation concerning knowledge transfer (i.e. lack of equivalence, cultural interference and ambiguity). The proposed research framework was fully supported.

Research limitations/implications

The results provide insightful implications for MNEs to treat translation as a significant “re-codification” rather than a mundane task. Knowledge transfer within MNEs involves not only knowledge regarding products, technology and operations but also involves “whole organizations” including business models, organizational visions, missions and strategies.

Originality/value

The main value of this paper is to propose a novel model regarding the role of translation in cross-cultural knowledge transfer in China. Language is a container of contexts; the translation procedure in MNEs is actually dynamic and contingent in nature and can be seen as an act of knowledge creation per se.

Details

Chinese Management Studies, vol. 9 no. 4
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/CMS-06-2015-0114
ISSN: 1750-614X

Keywords

  • China
  • Knowledge transfer
  • Translation
  • Cross-cultural management
  • Language
  • Multinational enterprises (MNES) and corporations (MNCS)

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Article
Publication date: 1 August 2000

Knowledge translation: a new perspective on knowledge transfer and foresight

Edward Major and Martyn Cordey‐Hayes

This article builds on existing concepts and models of knowledge transfer, presenting a conceptual framework of an integrated knowledge transfer process. It introduces the…

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Abstract

This article builds on existing concepts and models of knowledge transfer, presenting a conceptual framework of an integrated knowledge transfer process. It introduces the notion of knowledge translation to describe the key elements within the overall process. The new perspective provided by this knowledge translation framework has implications for the foresight process, for the UK Foresight programme and foresight policy makers and for the intermediary role of the business support community.

Details

Foresight, vol. 2 no. 4
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/14636680010802762
ISSN: 1463-6689

Keywords

  • Knowledge management
  • Business strategy
  • Technology

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Article
Publication date: 3 November 2020

Knowledge transfer and translation in cultural ecosystems

Renata Paola Dameri and Paola Demartini

This paper concerns the pivotal role that entrepreneurial universities can play in developing knowledge transfer and translation processes tailored to the cultural ecosystem.

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper concerns the pivotal role that entrepreneurial universities can play in developing knowledge transfer and translation processes tailored to the cultural ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines IncubiAmo Cultura, an innovative project that aims to mentor potential entrepreneurs and offer incubation and acceleration for cultural start-ups. The research methodology is based on action research and theory building from cases. An interventionist approach has been adopted, as one of the authors is also the founder of the ongoing project.

Findings

The in-depth collection of first-hand information on this pilot project has allowed the authors to formulate an analytical reflection and generate the design of a knowledge translation model driven by an entrepreneurial university that manifests itself through the creation of cultural and creative start-ups.

Research limitations/implications

This article offers an original contribution to scholarship by offering a conceptual model for knowledge translation in cultural ecosystems. Common values (i.e. social, cultural, ethical and aesthetic ones) emerge as the basis on which to build open innovation and knowledge circulation.

Practical implications

For local policymakers, this study provides a clue to understand the need for both an integrated vision of knowledge translation and policies that aim to make an impact at the cultural ecosystem level. For entrepreneurial university governance, our investigation offers suggestions on the design and implementation of knowledge translation processes that fit with the specificity of the cultural ecosystem. For practitioners in the cultural field, a change of mindset is required to combine resources, energies and knowledge.

Originality/value

This work fills several gaps in the literature, as research generally concerns knowledge transfer from entrepreneurial universities to the market with regard to high-tech sectors. In contrast, the cultural sector is often neglected, despite its importance in the renewal and development of a territory.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 58 no. 9
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-10-2019-1505
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

  • Cultural ecosystems
  • Cultural and creative start-ups
  • Cultural heritage
  • Entrepreneurial university
  • Knowledge transfer
  • Knowledge translation

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Article
Publication date: 4 August 2020

Adopting a knowledge translation approach in healthcare co-production. A case study

Francesca Dal Mas, Helena Biancuzzi, Maurizio Massaro and Luca Miceli

The paper aims to contribute to the debate concerning the use of knowledge translation for implementing co-production processes in the healthcare sector. The study…

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Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to contribute to the debate concerning the use of knowledge translation for implementing co-production processes in the healthcare sector. The study investigates a case study, in which design was used to trigger knowledge translation and foster co-production.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a case study methodology by analysing the experience of “Oncology in Motion”, a co-production program devoted to the recovery of breast cancer patients carried on by the IRCCS C.R.O. of Aviano, Italy.

Findings

Results show how design could help to translate knowledge from various stakeholders with different skills (e.g. scientists, physicians, nurses) and emotional engagement (e.g. patients and patients' associations) during all the phases of a co-production project to support breast cancer patients in a recovery path. Stewardship theory is used to show that oncology represents a specific research context.

Practical implications

The paper highlights the vast practical contribution that design can have in empowering knowledge translation at different levels and in a variety of co-production phases, among different stakeholders, facilitating their engagement and the achievement of the desired outcomes.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature on knowledge translation in co-production projects in the healthcare sector showing how design can be effectively implemented.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 58 no. 9
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-10-2019-1444
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

  • Design
  • Knowledge translation
  • Co-production
  • Healthcare
  • Breast cancer

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Article
Publication date: 9 October 2017

Knowledge translation mechanisms in open innovation: the role of design in R&D projects

Luca Simeone, Giustina Secundo and Giovanni Schiuma

This paper aims to investigate the role of design as a knowledge translation mechanism in R&D-oriented open innovation. In particular, the paper intends to look at how…

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Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the role of design as a knowledge translation mechanism in R&D-oriented open innovation. In particular, the paper intends to look at how design can be used as a means of knowledge transfer among various stakeholders who speak different languages and have divergent needs and interests in a process where knowledge openly flew across the boundaries of a high number of organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper combines the insights from theory with the empirical evidences gathered by adopting an extreme case study approach: the detailed analysis of a case study related to an R&D project funded by the European Commission and aimed to investigate and produce innovative serious games in the area of healthcare. The project gathered a large number of stakeholders and deliberately adopted design to support an open innovation approach.

Findings

The paper provides insights into the use of design outputs such as artifacts, sketches, visual representations or prototypes to translate ideas, theoretical and technical requirements, documents and outputs into formats that can be more easily understood and appreciated by various stakeholders. This supports and favors coordination in open innovation projects where many different stakeholders are engaged in.

Research limitations/implications

Although the adoption of an extreme case study approach offers important implications to understand the role of design in R&D-oriented open innovation, the use of a single case study represents the basis both to explore hypothesis and to provide first evidences that need to be further tested with other qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Practical implications

The paper offers practical implications about how design can help individuals and organizations involved in R&D activities to better communicate and share knowledge among various stakeholders by aligning their different needs, interests and languages along the various phases of their project development.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lays at the intersection of three different fields: open innovation, knowledge management and design for innovation, thus integrating mature, but so far isolated, research streams. It provides insights for theory building by explaining the use of design as knowledge translational mechanism as well as it informs the practice by highlighting the power of design as a mean to support knowledge flows into open innovation-based R&D projects.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 21 no. 6
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JKM-10-2016-0432
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

  • Design
  • Open innovation
  • Knowledge translation
  • R&D project

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Article
Publication date: 2 August 2013

Knowledge translation in healthcare: Incorporating theories of learning and knowledge from the management literature

Eivor Oborn, Michael Barrett and Girts Racko

The authors draw selectively on theories of learning and knowledge, which currently have received little attention from knowledge translation (KT) researchers, and suggest…

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Abstract

Purpose

The authors draw selectively on theories of learning and knowledge, which currently have received little attention from knowledge translation (KT) researchers, and suggest how they might usefully inform future development of the KT literature. The purpose of this paper is to provide conceptual tools and strategies for the growing number of managers, clinicians and decision makers navigating this arena.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a narrative review to synthesise two streams of literature and examine evolving conceptual landscape concerning knowledge translation over the previous three decades. Conceptual mapping was used iteratively to develop and synthesise the literature. Iterative feedback from relevant research and practice stakeholder groups was used to focus and strengthen the review.

Findings

KT has been conceptualised along three competing frames; one focusing on linear (largely unidirectional) transfer of knowledge; one focusing on KT as a social process; and another that seeks to more fully incorporate contextual issues in understanding research implementation. Three overlapping themes are found in the management literature that inform these debates in the health literature, namely knowledge boundaries, organisational learning and absorptive capacity. Literature on knowledge boundaries problematizes the nature of boundaries and the stickiness of knowledge. Organisational learning conceptualises the need for organisational wide systems to facilitate learning processes; it also draws on a more expansive view of knowledge. Absorptive capacity focuses at the firm level on the role of developing organisational capabilities that enable the identification, assimilation and use of new knowledge to enable innovation.

Research limitations/implications

The paper highlights the need to consider KT processes at multiple levels, including individual, organisational and strategic levels. These are important not only for research but also have practical implications for individuals and organisations involved in KT processes.

Originality/value

This review summarises and integrates two largely separate literature streams on knowledge translation – namely health services research and management scholarship. In addition to outlining and organising the conceptual landscape around knowledge transfer, the paper contributes by highlighting how management literature on knowledge and learning theories might inform health services research on knowledge translation.

Details

Journal of Health Organization and Management, vol. 27 no. 4
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JHOM-01-2012-0004
ISSN: 1477-7266

Keywords

  • Knowledge sharing
  • Literature
  • Implementation
  • Management theory
  • Improvement
  • Information management
  • Learning
  • Knowledge transfer

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Article
Publication date: 8 October 2018

Using electronic information resources to solve cultural translation problems: Differences between students and professional translators

Christian Olalla-Soler

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of electronic information resources to solve cultural translation problems at different stages of acquisition of the…

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of electronic information resources to solve cultural translation problems at different stages of acquisition of the translator’s cultural competence.

Design/methodology/approach

A process and product-oriented, cross-sectional, quasi-experimental study was conducted with 38 students with German as a second foreign language from the four years of the Bachelor’s degree in Translation and Interpreting at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and ten professional translators.

Findings

Translation students use a wider variety of resources, perform more queries and spend more time on queries than translators when solving cultural translation problems. The students’ information-seeking process is generally less efficient than that of the translators. Training has little impact on the students’ use of electronic information resources for this specific purpose, since all students use them similarly regardless of the year they are in.

Research limitations/implications

The study has been conducted with a small sample and only one language pair from a single pedagogical context. The tendencies observed cannot be generalised to the whole population of translation students.

Practical implications

This paper has implications for translator training, as it encourages the development of efficient information-seeking processes for the resolution of cultural translation problems.

Originality/value

Unlike other studies, this paper focusses on a specific translation problem type. It provides information related to the students’ information-seeking strategies for the resolution of cultural translation problems, which can be useful for translation training.

Details

Journal of Documentation, vol. 74 no. 6
Type: Research Article
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/JD-02-2018-0033
ISSN: 0022-0418

Keywords

  • Acquisition of the translator’s cultural competence
  • Cultural translation problems
  • Process-oriented research
  • Quasi-experimental study
  • Translation competence
  • Use of electronic information resources

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