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Collaboration in the Making—Towards a Practice-Based Approach to University Innovation Intermediary Organisations

Author

Listed:
  • Lisa Blix Germundsson

    (Department of Work Science, Business Economics and Environmental Psychology, Faculty of Landscape Architecture, Horticulture and Crop Production Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 88, 230 53 Alnarp, Sweden)

  • Sören Augustinsson

    (Department of Work Science, Faculty of Business, Kristianstad University, 291 88 Kristianstad, Sweden)

  • Alina Lidén

    (Department of Business, Faculty of Business, Kristianstad University, 291 88 Kristianstad, Sweden
    Department of Service Management and Service Studies, Lund University, 221 00 Helsingborg, Sweden)

Abstract

The study aims to understand and explore situations of collaboration between various actors in connection with a university-driven innovation intermediary organisation, and how the intermediary organisation facilitates collaboration in the making. To this end, we employ a case of a university-driven long-lasting intermediary organisation within the agricultural and forestry sectors. We examine three collaborative situations, using practice-based research and process theories as theoretical perspectives. A narrative approach is adopted as the method of investigation. The findings are presented in a conceptual model where the structures of the intermediary organisation are translated into practices, against which individuals can develop their collaboration processes. It is concluded that collaboration in the making is formed in the interplay between structures, practices and processes in relations between people. This implies that the organising of collaboration should focus its attention not only on structures but also on the practices and processes formed between people. The study contributes to the understanding of the organising of university innovation intermediary organisations by untangling the relations between structures, practices and processes in situations of collaboration between people.

Suggested Citation

  • Lisa Blix Germundsson & Sören Augustinsson & Alina Lidén, 2020. "Collaboration in the Making—Towards a Practice-Based Approach to University Innovation Intermediary Organisations," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(12), pages 1-14, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:12:y:2020:i:12:p:5142-:d:375627
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Aurélie Cardona & Cristiana Carusi & Michael Mayerfeld Bell, 2021. "Engaged Intermediaries to Bridge the Gap between Scientists, Educational Practitioners and Farmers to Develop Sustainable Agri-Food Innovation Systems: A US Case Study," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(21), pages 1-13, October.

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