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Looking under the street light: Limitations of mainstream technology transfer indicators

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  • Kristjan Sigurdson
  • Creso M. Sá
  • Andrew Kretz

Abstract

This study investigates the use of university technology transfer reporting standards developed under the aegis of the US-based Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) in Canada. Given the importance to policy-makers internationally of improving the contributions of universities in transferring technology to industry, these indicators are regarded as critical to informing the policy debate. We analyze federal science and technology policy and identify how these metrics have influenced the framing of policy problems and alternatives. Next, a micro-level analysis of Canada’s largest research university unveils several major weaknesses of the survey. Our study points to the need for a more critical use of the AUTM licensing data in the Canadian policy debate, and provides recommendations on the future development of these indicators and their use in public policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Kristjan Sigurdson & Creso M. Sá & Andrew Kretz, 2015. "Looking under the street light: Limitations of mainstream technology transfer indicators," Science and Public Policy, Oxford University Press, vol. 42(5), pages 632-645.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:scippl:v:42:y:2015:i:5:p:632-645.
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Arundel, Anthony & Bordoy, Catalina, 2008. "Developing internationally comparable indicators for the commercialization of publicly-funded research," MERIT Working Papers 2008-075, United Nations University - Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (MERIT).
    2. Doutriaux, J. & Barker, M., 1995. "The University-Industry Relationship in Science and Technology," Gouvernement du Canada - Industrial Organization 11, Gouvernement du Canada - Industry Canada.
    3. repec:hrv:hksfac:5345878 is not listed on IDEAS
    4. Gu, W. & Whewell, L., 1999. "University Research and Commercialization of Intellectual Property in Canada," Papers 21, Gouvernement du Canada - Industry Canada;Gouvernement du Canada - Industry Canada.
    5. Clark, William C. & Tomich, Thomas P. & Noordwijk, Meine van & Guston, David & Delia, Catacutan & Dickson, Nancy M. & McNie, Elizabeth, 2011. "Boundary Work for Sustainable Development: Natural Resource Management at the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR)," Scholarly Articles 9774653, Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
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