Models of Cooperation and Knowledge Management: The Case of Biomedical Technology Management

In the current biological paradigm, the biologist can no longer work in isolation. Networks of collaboration that are supported by information and communication technologies will enable researchers from a variety of disciplines and laboratories to generate and validate biological knowledge. Central to the development of medical tools and medical products is ensuring accessibility to knowledge for multiple researchers. Academia, government, and industry will all play a role in shaping policies that will enable cooperative knowledge production and the broad dissemination of biological knowledge. To better understand models of cooperation and knowledge management, we profile two case studies, the Agilent Microarrary Design program and the Accelrys Nanotechnology Consortium. Agilent has introduced the industry's first shared microarray design program. The program provides a new way of doing business with Agilent that allows scientists to share their custom microarray designs with designated groups while maintaining control of their intellectual property, or to share them with the scientific community at large. The Accelrys Nanotechnology Consortium provides a project framework that addresses the challenges of rational nanomaterials and nanodevice design. The Consortium gives members an edge in their R&D, increasing both its efficiency and effectiveness. It will further enhance the impact of software tools, contributing to R&D cost savings, supporting patent applications, facilitating interdisciplinary working, and supporting a smooth ongoing 'lab to fab' transition.