Joint university-industry laboratories through the lens of proximity dimensions: moving beyond geographical proximity

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 433-456
Author(s):  
Maral Mahdad ◽  
Thai Thi Minh ◽  
Marcel L.A.M. Bogers ◽  
Andrea Piccaluga
Keyword(s):  
Inductive Reasoning ◽  
Geographical Proximity ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Cultural Proximity ◽  
Collaborative Innovation ◽  
University Industry ◽  
Proximity Dimensions

Purpose There is little known about investigating the importance of all proximity dimensions simultaneously as a result of geographical proximity on university-industry collaborative innovation. This paper aims to answer the question of how geographically proximate university and industry influence cognitive, social, organizational, institutional and cultural proximity within university-industry joint laboratories and finally, what is the outcome of these interplays on collaborative innovation. Design/methodology/approach The study uses an exploratory multiple-case study approach. The results are derived from 53 in-depth, semistructured interviews with laboratory directors and representatives from both the company and the university within 8 joint laboratories of Telecom Italia (TIM). The data collection was carried out in 2014 and 2015. The analysis follows a multi-grounded theory approach and relies on a mix of deductive and inductive reasoning with the final goal of theoretical elaboration. Findings This study finds the role of social and cultural proximity at the individual level as a result of geographical proximity as an enabler of collaborative innovation by triggering mutual learning, trust formation and frequent interactions. Cognitive proximity at the interface level could systematically influence collaborative innovation, while organizational and institutional proximity has marginal roles in facilitating collaborative innovation. The qualitative analysis offers a conceptual framework for proximity dimensions and collaborative innovation within university-industry joint laboratories. Practical implications The framework not only advances state-of-the-art university-industry collaboration and proximity dimension but also offers guidance for managers in designing collaborative innovation settings between university and industry. Originality/value With this study, the paper advances the understanding beyond solely the relationship between proximity and collaboration and shed light on the interplay between geographical proximity and other proximity dimensions in this context, which has received limited scholarly attention.

Team based communication and the healthcare communication space

2018 ◽  
Vol 32 (6) ◽  
pp. 825-840 ◽  
Author(s):  
Janet Alexandra Cornett ◽  
Craig Kuziemsky
Keyword(s):  
Common Ground ◽  
Group Communication ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Participant Observation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Communication Space ◽  
Support Team ◽  
Healthcare Communication

Purpose While previous studies have described structural, process and social aspects of the healthcare communication space there is no overall model of it. Such a model is an essential first step to improving the operationalization and management of healthcare communication. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach This paper used a case study approach to study team-based communication on a palliative care unit. Non-participant observation, interviews and documents were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Findings The analysis developed an overall model of the healthcare communication space that consists of five stages: purpose, practices and workflows, structures, implementation, and the development of common ground to support team-based communication. The authors’ findings emphasized that implicit communication remains a predominant means of communication and workflow issues at the individual level are a frequent cause of unnecessary group communication tasks. Originality/value To improve team-based communication we first need to develop protocols that support team communication needs such as loop closing of group communication tasks in order to minimize unnecessary individual communication tasks. We also need to develop common ground at the protocol, document and terminology levels as part of supporting team-based communication.

Should knowledge management in organizations be rebranded?

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maayan Nakash ◽  
Dan Bouhnik
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Management ◽  
Organizational Context ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Qualitative Research Methodology ◽  
Knowledge Intensive ◽  
Strategic Perspective ◽  
First Time

Purpose This study aims to examine the relevance of the term “knowledge management” (KM) in the organizational context, and deliberates whether there is a need for rebranding of this field. It also enriches the understanding regarding the appropriateness of the term “KM,” which was chosen to represent the discipline. Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a qualitative research methodology, and a case study approach was followed by conducting 19 semi-structured in-depth interviews with international KM experts working in a global consulting firm. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis method based on the grounded theory approach. Findings The findings provide empirical evidence that attempts are being made to move away from the label “KM” in certain knowledge-intensive organizations. This study sheds light on the challenges associated with this term, which leads some to believe that the name of the discipline needs to change. Originality/value The present pioneering research contributes to empirical knowledge through investigation of an unexplored scientific field. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, for the first time, its uniqueness can be established by the fact that the opinions of KM professionals are being heard regarding the “KM” label, as well as the need for a rebranding of this discipline in the organizational context. From a practical and strategic perspective, this study suggests that the research community and practitioners pay attention to attempts to shift away from the existing title identified in organizational practice.

scholarly journals Green human resource management

2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (7) ◽  
pp. 1041-1060 ◽  
Author(s):  
Azadeh Shafaei ◽  
Mehran Nejati ◽  
Yusmani Mohd Yusoff
Keyword(s):  
Positive Outcome ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Research Model ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
The Individual ◽  
Green Human Resource Management ◽  
Organisational Level

PurposeThe study aimed to provide insights on antecedent and outcome of green HRM at the organisational level and the outcome of green HRM at the individual level. It also sought to examine the mechanism through which green HRM would lead to employees’ positive outcome.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative study design using a two-study approach was employed to collect and analyse the data. For study 1, 206 hotels from Malaysia were included in analysis at the organisational level, while in study 2 at the individual level, 508 employees from different sectors provided insights through an online questionnaire. For both studies, partial least squares (PLS–SEM) was used to assess the research model.FindingsAll the proposed hypotheses were supported. Specifically, at the organisational level, organisational environmental culture is positively related to green HRM, and green HRM management positively associates with organisation's environmental performance. At the individual level, green HRM positively influences employees' job satisfaction, and meaningfulness through work is a strong mediator in this relationship.Originality/valueThis study is significant as it contributes to both theory and practice by providing fresh insights on green HRM and its antecedent and outcomes at two levels (organisational and individual) and across two economies (emerging and developed). It also sheds some light on the outcome of green HRM at the employee level which is an area that is still under-researched. By focusing on meaningfulness through work as an important factor, the study contributes to better understanding of green HRM and employees’ positive outcomes.

Managing the university-industry collaborative innovation in China

2018 ◽  
Vol 31 (1) ◽  
pp. 62-82
Author(s):  
Fei Li ◽  
Jin Chen ◽  
Yu-Shan Su
Keyword(s):  
Innovation Management ◽  
Collaborative Relationships ◽  
Joint Research ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Innovation Activities ◽  
Collaborative Innovation ◽  
Innovation Practices ◽  
The University ◽  
University Industry

Purpose Collaboration with universities is an important innovation strategy for enterprises. However, currently very little research has focused on how such university-industry collaborative innovation activities should be managed. The paper aims to discuss this issue. Design/methodology/approach This paper introduces the university-industry collaborative innovation practices of Zhejiang NHU Company in China. By using a case study as the method, this paper aims to illustrate the mechanism of university-industry collaborative innovation and how to manage the collaborative innovation activities efficiently. Findings Zhejiang NHU Company established a university-industry collaborative innovation link through three innovation platforms: the technology R&D center, the ZJU-NHU joint-research center, and the national engineer center. Zhejiang NHU Company manages its collaborative relationships with universities through this innovation network. Originality/value NHU Company managed the collaborative relationship efficiently with the institutions, representing an effective degree of university-industry collaborative innovation management.

scholarly journals Fundamental elements of university-industry interaction from a grounded theory approach

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rafaela Bürger ◽  
Gabriela Gonçalves Silveira Fiates
Keyword(s):  
Grounded Theory ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Small Sample Size ◽  
Small Sample ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Innovation Ecosystem ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The University ◽  
Grounded Theory Approach ◽  
University Industry

PurposeThis work aims to analyze the university–industry interaction in innovation ecosystems. The problem under study addresses how agents can operate in university–industry interactions to enhance the connections, specifically in the aspect of operational mechanisms of an innovation ecosystem.Design/methodology/approachThe study is qualitative, applied through grounded theory approach, cross-sectional and multiple sources of evidence – semi-structured interviews were conducted. An explanatory conceptual model was subsequently compared with the literature and validated with specialists.FindingsThe results showed that the university–industry interaction is influenced by several factors, such as networking, legal support, facilitating agents, management practices. Despite this, some other factors were identified for the improvement of U–I relationships, such as: strengthening of triple helix, greater legal certainty and encouragement of open innovation.Research limitations/implicationsThe small sample size and the heterogeneity among the universities interviewed did not allow full saturation to occur. In spite of that, a significant level of saturation with respect to the challenges and barriers was observed.Practical implicationsThis work has a direct dialogue with researchers, managers and actors involved in university–industry interaction with regard to increasing the capacity for creation and dissemination of knowledge among organizations, educational institutions, government and companies.Originality/valueBy adopting a grounded theory approach, a detailed research agenda addresses research needs in two main areas: activities that precede the interaction between universities and companies, and the organization and management of the consequences of collaborative relationships.

Exploring resilience in adult daughter and spousal carers of people living with dementia in North West England: an ecological approach

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Warren James Donnellan ◽  
Kate Mary Bennett ◽  
Natalie Watson
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Methodology ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Constructivist Grounded Theory ◽  
Ecological Resilience ◽  
Ecological Approach ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Adult Daughter ◽  
Content Type ◽  
North West ◽  
Individual Level

Purpose Research has shown that informal carers of people living with dementia (PLWD) can be resilient in the face of caregiving challenges. However, little is known about resilience across different kinship ties. This study aims to update and build on our previous work, using an ecological resilience framework to identify and explore the factors that facilitate or hinder resilience across spousal and adult daughter carers of PLWD. Design/methodology/approach This study conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with a purposive sample of 13 carers from North West England and analysed the data using a constructivist grounded theory approach (Charmaz, 2003). Findings Adult daughters were motivated to care out of reciprocity, whereas spouses were motivated to care out of marital duty. Spouses had a more positive and accepting attitude towards caregiving and were better able to maintain continuity, which facilitated their resilience. Research limitations/implications Resilience emerged on multiple levels and depended on the type of kinship tie, which supports an ecological approach to resilience. The implications of these findings are discussed. Originality/value This paper makes a novel contribution to the literature as it uses an in-depth qualitative methodology to compare resilience across spousal and adult daughter carers of PLWD. This study adopts an ecological approach to identify not just individual-level resilience resources but also interactive community- and societal-level resources.

Developing collaboration structures for university-industry interaction and innovations

2015 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 451-470 ◽  
Author(s):  
Martti Mäkimattila ◽  
Timo Junell ◽  
Tero Rantala
Keyword(s):  
Applied Sciences ◽  
Knowledge Exchange ◽  
Structural Development ◽  
Content Type ◽  
External Resources ◽  
Innovation Activities ◽  
Collaborative Innovation ◽  
Universities Of Applied Sciences ◽  
Learning Modes ◽  
University Industry

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the doing, using, and interacting (DUI) of Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) while developing intra- and inter-collaboration with industry. It also reviews recent literature related to the roles of absorptive capacity (AC) and social capital (SC) in interaction. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative case research on developing collaborations between UAS and small- and medium-sized enterprises for innovation activities. Findings – Prior knowledge and contacts vary in organisations, and interaction should be supported while aiming to maximise benefits of internal and external resources available for innovation. This paper contributes by pointing out the importance of the interconnection of DUI, AC, and SC while developing collaboration. Originality/value – This paper describes issues challenging the collaborative innovation activities and directions to focus on structural development to support interaction with parties having different backgrounds, goals, and strengths. The study highlights the importance of knowledge exchange with several universities and firms, and the different learning modes related to innovation.

scholarly journals Change through chaos: using bricolage in cross-sector social partnerships

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Melissa Intindola ◽  
Laurel Ofstein
Keyword(s):  
Grand Challenge ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Social Partnership ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
Grand Challenges ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Social Partnerships ◽  
Facilitating Conditions ◽  
The Individual

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore bricolage as the missing link in understanding how cross-sector social partnerships form and operate in response to grand challenges. It is proposed that the weaving together of resources employed by members of cross-sector social partnerships (CSSPs) is bricolage in action and can be linked to Gray's (1985) facilitating conditions for collaboration. While existing research examines bricolage primarily at the individual level, this research studies collective bricolage, as implemented by a cross-sector social partnership in its process to address a grand challenge.Design/methodology/approachThe authors follow the evolution of a Midwestern initiative aimed at the grand challenge of generational poverty. The deductive case study approach identifies the mechanisms of bricolage being employed in the initiative's evolution and ties these to Gray's (1985) seminal paper on interorganizational collaboration.FindingsThis case study has implications for academics conceptually struggling to understand grand challenges and the role of entrepreneurial initiatives in the public and nonprofit sectors, as well as practitioners currently involved in collaborative efforts to address said challenges.Originality/valueThis study enriches the discussion and enhances the link between the CSSP literature and new notions of social entrepreneurship that embrace the collective as their unit of analysis. This is the first work of its kind to link bricolage to a nascent CSSP and demonstrate how the entrepreneurial concept of bricolage is an inherent part of CSSP formation and operation.

Informal industry–university partnership in gaming education and research: a case study in Macao

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Carlos Siu Lam
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Transfer ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Formal Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
University Partnership ◽  
The Government ◽  
University Industry ◽  
Original Approach

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to present a model of a university–industry partnership in gaming education and research. It analyzes the interactions and knowledge transfer between the two parties in Macao.Design/methodology/approachThis paper adopts a qualitative case study approach to share experiences of a university based in Macao as a single case to present its informal partnership with the industry in the area of gaming education and research.FindingsThis paper has shown that the partnership has provided clear benefits to both parties and the government is an influential power that can enhance collaboration. Although the informal partnership involves considerable time and efforts, it is flexible in comparison to the formal approach. Despite this, the knowledge transfer tends to focus on general issues to avoid being appropriated by competitors.Research limitations/implicationsThis demonstrates how a public university in Macao has achieved an informal industry–university partnership, which requires the commitment and understanding of both parties for the bi-directional exchange of knowledge. Such knowledge needs to be value-enhancing for the industry to keep the partnership grow and prosper.Originality/valueThis study puts forward an original approach to an informal industry–university partnership in the area of gaming education and research.

Exploring the evolution of ethnic entrepreneurship: the case of Brazilian immigrants in Florida

2018 ◽  
Vol 24 (5) ◽  
pp. 971-993 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eduardo Picanço Cruz ◽  
Roberto Pessoa Queiroz Falcao ◽  
Cesar Ramos Barreto
Keyword(s):  
Comparative Case Study ◽  
Theory Approach ◽  
Immigrant Communities ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Ethnic Entrepreneurship ◽  
Secondary Sources ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
Community Stakeholders ◽  
Brazilian Immigrants ◽  
Human And Social Capital

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze Brazilian entrepreneurial communities in Florida, through the capitals theory approach. Design/methodology/approach By adopting a comparative case study approach, the researchers conducted 80 in-depth interviews with Brazilian entrepreneurs in two different communities – Pompano Beach (Miami area) and Orlando, Florida. Data triangulation was performed through interviews with community stakeholders, secondary sources of data and surveys. Findings Authors propose a framework of 27 contexts, based on immigrant entrepreneurs’ capital provisions. Evidence points to different evolutionary paths of the two communities of Brazilian immigrants that were compared. Some of these contexts were found in other ethnicities from extant literature, which shows that it might be generalizable to other cases. Research limitations/implications The limitations relate to the fact that the comparative study was conducted in one ethnic group. Nevertheless, the paper brings insights to support future studies on immigrant and ethnic entrepreneurship as a building block for future comparative studies on other immigrant communities. Practical implications The work presents a guideline for future entrepreneurs in Florida. Social implications Implications of practice will arise after further studies in the contexts of economic, human and social capital. The cases of successful immigrant communities enlightened by the capitals theory might be useful to newly born ethnic enclaves. Originality/value The originality of the paper lies on the comparison of two entrepreneurial communities of the same ethnicity in Florida, showing different behaviors due to the internal and environmental factors. Moreover, the Brazilian entrepreneur’s particularities add up to the general theory of immigrant or ethnic entrepreneurship.

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