Science–Business Interaction: Challenges in Defining Knowledge Transfer. Part 1

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Abstract

Studies on cooperation between science and business often focus on the challenges of knowledge transfer, including assessing the effectiveness of this process. However, such works frequently fail to explicate the concept of knowledge transfer, even when conceptualizing or operationalizing it is essential. In Russian legislation, “knowledge transfer” is used as a stable term, although its interpretations remain ambiguous and vary depending on a theoretical framework applied. Diverse theoretical frameworks emphasize distinct aspects of knowledge transfer, ultimately forming a comprehensive understanding of the process. At the same time, discrepancies in underlying theoretical assumptions frequently result in inconsistencies across research findings and terminological confusion. Furthermore, the dominance of particular concepts at different stages in academia inevitably shapes not only researchers’ interpretations of results but also policy decisions. Undoubtedly, defining knowledge transfer is inherently complex, owing to the multifaceted and varied interpretations of the foundational concept of knowledge. Nevertheless, terminology must not be overlooked in research or regulatory documents, as ambiguity undermines both theoretical and practical conclusions. Unlike existing overviews of knowledge transfer approaches, this article analyze how differing theoretical assumptions influence the interpretation of the concept “knowledge transfer”. It incorporates firm-level approaches that treat organizations as sets of knowledge. The findings of this study may prove valuable for future research on knowledge transfer and for drafting policies that outline strategies for science–business collaboration, as well as the role of research organizations in the science and technology development of a country.

About the authors

Svetlana A. Samovoleva

Central Economics and Mathematics Institute of the RAS

Email: svetdao@yandex.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0003-4071-0974
SPIN-code: 9745-7716
ResearcherId: O-2411-2015
Doctor of Economics, Leading Researcher Moscow, Russia

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