Industry partners-- A technology transfer model for academia

Technology transfer is a primary mission of most academic programs. The ease with which the transfer takes place is a function of methodology (or approach), environment (in an organizational and facility sense), and the personal characteristics of the participants. The unregulated flow of information (without smoothing the way) impedes transfer by creating turbulence. The College of Marine Studies of the University of Delaware, a professional graduate college, has made a conscious effort to facilitate low turbulence two way technology transfer with industry through its Industry Partners Program. Two way because it has been our experience that responsiveness and relevance correlate closely with an understanding of real world problems as perceived by the decision maker. Four modes of transfer are recognized: 1) The College as an intermediary between partners and external information sources, 2) The college as a tutor, 3) Brainstorming (two way exchange between partners and colleges), 4) Joint ventures with partners including prime and subcontract roles. A number of issues that are potential sources of turbulence are examined and the approach taken by the College briefly discussed.