Tandem C

Focusing on Demand Driven Applied Research and Technology/Knowledge Transfer

In today’s rapidly evolving world, as industries and society grapple with complex problems, the role of demand-driven applied research has become increasingly crucial. This approach ensures that research efforts are not only relevant but also directly address the immediate needs of various sectors. By aligning research with specific demands, it creates a pathway for technology and knowledge transfer that accelerates the application of new discoveries into practical, impactful outcomes.

As literatures indicate University of Applied Sciences (UAS) should prioritize professional practice in their strategic plan over academic excellence. As a key partner for companies and professional organizations, UASs play a vital role in applied research and knowledge transfer domain. While a separate strategic plan for applied research and knowledge transfer could be ideal, the focus should remain on addressing real-world needs and fostering industry collaboration. This shift towards demand-driven research and technology transfer is essential in bridging the gap between academic research and industry needs.

This toolbox addresses key topics essential for effective applied research and knowledge transfer. It includes contextual description/definition of applied research, University-Business Cooperation model (UBC), The role of a Center for Entrepreneurship: Opportunities for impact through research funding, Description of dissemination in applied research, how to start and maintain a change in culture

Moreover, the toolbox covers vital elements such as Ethical standards, standard operating procedures, Quality assurance / performance indicators and Human resource management, capacity building.  

 

Introduction

As a definition, applied research accelerates the transition of theoretical knowledge into actionable solutions, transforming abstract research into tools and technologies that address pressing societal challenges. The following diagram briefly illustrates the relationship between scientific research, applied research, higher education, and industry, with a focus on demand-driven applied research.

 

                                                                                           Fig: Applied research

The University-Business Cooperation model (UBC)

The UBC ecosystem model that describes the relation between universities of applied science and businesses and society. This model is a framework that describes stakeholders, supporting mechanisms, and influencing factors, and on the other hand describes outcomes, for universities, businesses and society. At the bottom of the model the stakeholders are positioned.

     

     Fig: University-Business Cooperation model (UBC)

 The role of a Center for Entrepreneurship: Opportunities for impact through research funding

A Center for Entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in transforming research into tangible impact by fostering innovation and facilitating the commercialization of ideas. By providing dedicated support for researchers, these centers help bridge the gap between academic research and real-world application. This work explores new opportunities to increase the impact of research, which can also enhance grant applications, where impact is often a key evaluation factor. In the EU, a knowledge utilization section is frequently required in grant proposals, covering aspects such as teaching materials, feasibility studies, patent filings, or hiring business developers.

The Centre for Entrepreneurship (e.g., Saxion Centre for Entrepreneurship) supports efficient implementation, network expansion, and new research opportunities. The toolbox offers inspirational examples of impact activities, which researchers can tailor to their objectives, local context, and available funding. Costs may vary significantly across regions, such as Europe and Ethiopia. Using models like the 3 Tree model, researchers can shape their projects to consider both short- and long-term impacts.

Making an impact involves optimizing knowledge sharing and dissemination through key components such as strategic profiling of research, sustainable professionalism in leadership and management, robust networks involving students, faculty, and programs, and a focus on quality through track records, quality assurance, data management, and Open Science. The following 3 Tree model can be used to determine impact.