What Makes University-Enterprise Collaborations Successful? An integrative Review

Abstract

Purpose: This review was conducted as part of a broader research project, "Strengthening University-Enterprise Collaboration for Resilient Communities in Asia". The aim of the project was to map the collaborative architecture of partner universities with the public and private sectors to enhance social and economic development.
Methodology: An integrative method was adopted to systematically identify eligible literature and synthesise relevant findings regarding processes, dynamics, and factors involved in the formation, maintenance and governance of successful university enterprise collaboration (UEC).
Findings: Ninety articles met the inclusion criteria and encompassed several processes, dynamics, and factors related to the development, maintenance and governance of successful UECs including, definitions, frameworks, types, formation, timelines, barriers, and enablers. Measurements of UEC success and good practices were also identified.
Implications: The findings enhance the understanding of what makes a successful UEC. This review is the first phase in the development of a heuristic UEC framework that facilitates collaborative success for social and economic development. 
Originality: The review utilises a novel approach to synthesise a vast body of UEC literature encompassing a diverse range of processes, dynamics, and factors that contribute to the development, maintenance and governance of successful UECs.