Barriers to Technology Transfer

Technology transfer is a complex process which relies on informal communication between individuals. In promoting this activity, policy makers need a clear understanding of the main actors in this process, and the organizations where they work. This paper analyses the issue from the perspective of academics and universities in the UK. It concludes that, although higher education has become more competitive and entrepreneurial in the past decade, it cannot be assumed that lecturers and their institutions will regard technology transfer as a priority area. While government has assumed that the main barriers to technology are lack of will or understanding on the part of academics and universities, it is possible that lack of incentive is equally important. Policy makers must therefore adopt measures which are compatible with the interests and aspirations of those who are expected to implement them.