In the process of collaboration between Companies and Universities, personal relationships are a fundamental aspect of maximising results. As such, the intermediaries who liaise between the different organisations play an essential role.

In the business world, a transfer manager must be fully qualified, and have a sound, practical understanding of all the operational procedures associated with academic institutions. They must also have the capacity to develop a wide network of contacts within the university and interact regularly with the Results Transfer Offices (TTOs). Other skills required include: good communication skills; a sound knowledge of intellectual property protection and marketing; and a sound knowledge of several languages.

If necessary, the role of transfer manager may be performed by a group or committee of experts on the subject, thereby permitting specialisation in particular scientific-technical fields or geographical areas.

The appointing of this type of manager or specialised committee is also recommended in the Universities. Their functions should be similar to those described above for the Companies, and the ideal candidates are those who are responsible for the departments of Innovation.

Agents required for implementation

This recommendation can be implemented by a single company or several companies working together to optimise resources.

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1. Commercial knowledge transfers from universities to firms: improving the effectiveness of university-industry collaboration. Journal of High Technology Management Research 14 (2003) 111-133. Universities of Arizona and North Carolina..
2. Continuing Professional Development Framework for Knowledge Transfer Practitioners (auril: Assotiation for University Research and Industry Links).
3. Interview with Mr.  Berti. Research and Technology Transfer Office, University of Padua.