Transfer of advanced manufacturing technology from universities to industry

Abstract

Summary form only given, follows. The authors discuss a study of the various mechanisms by which advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) is transferred from Canadian universities to industry. Interviews based on quantitative and qualitative questionnaires were conducted with sixteen professors, eight university liaison officers, and several administrators in intermediary organizations which match professors and firms. Data were collected and analyzed on facilitating and inhibiting factors, success criteria, resources employed and benefits obtained, how contacts were established with industry, and a number of other issues. The investigation revealed that AMT is transferred using four interrelated processes in which professors, universities, intermediary organizations, and spinoffs, respectively, have the major role. A number of recommendations have been made for improving the effectiveness of AMT transfer.<>