The process from which an idea generates social and economic value is called Innovation cycle, knowledge transfer (KT) or technology transfer (TT) process.
The Innovation Cycle is summarized in the steps and diagram below. Note that these steps can vary in sequence and often occur simultaneously.
Knowledge Transfer and Technology transfer are terms used to describe the movement of knowledge and discoveries to the general public. Knowledge resulting from scientific research is commonly transferred to other parties that can use it to develop new knowledge for use in society and new products and services to introduce in markets, leading to innovation and improved quality of life.
Knowledge can be transferred by many ways such as the publication of results in books or scientific articles, participation in conferences or publication of patent applications. Knowledge can also be transferred through collaboration with third parties, either with all parties contributing to the results, either in the form of consultancy or contracted research (services).
Range of Knowledge Transfer activities:
People: placement of students, researchers and collaborators in companies or in the public or voluntary sectors is a direct way of exchanging knowledge on a short-term.
Publication and events: knowledge is transferred through publication of research outputs, and through events and networking.
Collaborative research: development of new products and services in collaboration with other organizations (companies, R&D institutions).
Contract research (Services): perform analysis or studies on demand to other organizations (companies, R&D institutions).
Consultancy: provision of domain-specific expert advice and training to external clients by university staff.
Licencing: Granting the right to use specific research outputs
New businesses: Bringing research outputs to market through the formation of a new business, the often called spin-off companies.
IRIS Services:
- Find partners, build your funding proposal: contact IRIS’ Business Development & Funding Department
- Develop your IP exploitation Plan: contact IRIS’ Department of IP & TT
- Develop your Dissemination & Communication Plan: contact IRIS’ Department of Impact