Paper Number
ECIS2026-1751
Paper Type
CRP
Abstract
While universities are traditionally considered the primary engines of scientific progress, non-university research institutions (NURI) play an equally vital role in the research landscape. Given the limited research on knowledge and technology transfer (KTT) within NURI, this study investigates how KTT in NURI can be represented in the form of a reference model. A multi-method approach, based on Design Science Research (DSR) and inductive reference modeling, integrates a systematic literature review, web research, and interviews with KTT managers to capture key processes, actors, and data objects in NURI’s KTT. The findings yield a HERAKLIT-based reference model for KTT within German NURI that extends previous KTT models by explicitly detailing both commercial and non-commercial transfer paths. The study also offers insights into potential opportunities and concerns related to emerging technologies expressed by interviewees. Future research should focus on the integration of advanced technologies, especially AI, to further enhance the KTT process.
Recommended Citation
Etzkorn, Manuel; Lovrekovic, Josip; Gieß, Anna; Tavakoligargari, Masoumeh; Jürjens, Jan; von Korflesch, Harald F. O.; and Fettke, Peter, "A Reference Model For Knowledge and Technology Transfer In German Non-University Research Institutions: A Design Science Research Approach" (2026). ECIS 2026 Proceedings. 2.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ecis2026/entmodel/entmodel/2
A Reference Model For Knowledge and Technology Transfer In German Non-University Research Institutions: A Design Science Research Approach
While universities are traditionally considered the primary engines of scientific progress, non-university research institutions (NURI) play an equally vital role in the research landscape. Given the limited research on knowledge and technology transfer (KTT) within NURI, this study investigates how KTT in NURI can be represented in the form of a reference model. A multi-method approach, based on Design Science Research (DSR) and inductive reference modeling, integrates a systematic literature review, web research, and interviews with KTT managers to capture key processes, actors, and data objects in NURI’s KTT. The findings yield a HERAKLIT-based reference model for KTT within German NURI that extends previous KTT models by explicitly detailing both commercial and non-commercial transfer paths. The study also offers insights into potential opportunities and concerns related to emerging technologies expressed by interviewees. Future research should focus on the integration of advanced technologies, especially AI, to further enhance the KTT process.
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