Critical Management Risks in Collaborative University-Industry R&D Programs

Abstract

In university-industry collaborative research and development (R&D) programs and projects, Risk Management (RM) has assumed a preponderant importance for the success of programs and projects due to their innovative nature. This paper aims to present the management risks identified in R&D funded programs within a large university-industry collaboration (UIC) case study, as well as the prioritization of the risks identified, and the suggested responses to the most critical risks. Based on literature, document analysis and participant observation of the case study, a catalogue of management risks for R&D programs and projects was created. Seeking to focus on critical risks, a survey and a focus group were developed to analyze these risks by key stakeholders involved in the UIC. The prioritization of risks was conducted based on a qualitative risk analysis carried out by key stakeholder’s in the UIC, who take the role of Program Manager, Project Manager and Program and Project Management Officer. Then, the critical risks were discussed in the focus group to define risk response strategies. Additionally, the paper discusses strategies for the institutionalization of the catalogue of management risks in UICs. The research was conducted based on only one case study which may limit the generalization of results.