Progressive digitization is noticeable in many areas of the economy and public life. However, as a recent study by KIT and the University of Koblenz shows, transfer offices at universities and non-university research institutions still have some catching up to do. Technology transfer is an important process for transferring scientific findings and know-how to industry and society. It comprises various processes, such as technology screening, patent applications, contracts and licensing, knowledge and competence transfer. These activities require a high level of communication and coordination between the players involved, such as researchers, companies or funding bodies, and the transfer offices themselves. Digitization can play a supporting role here. The new practical report "Digitizing in Technology Transfer" addresses this issue and highlights various approaches to digital transformation, with concrete ideas, suggestions, and experiences from KIT.

Benefit from a wide range of advantages

Digitization offers many opportunities for technology transfer. For one thing, digital communication and collaboration tools can improve the overall exchange of information and feedback between stakeholders. For another, digital tools and platforms can better document, track and evaluate the various stages of transfer. For example, comprehensive databases could facilitate the search for relevant research results, patents or collaboration partners. Digital contract and license management systems, on the other hand, could simplify and accelerate the legal aspects of the transfer. A tool for managing contacts and inquiries from industry could be used to document exploitation activities more clearly. These are just a few examples of how digitization can make technology transfer much more efficient, transparent and traceable in the future. This enables improved quality assurance, easier measurement of success and more effective reporting. In addition, the data can be used for the further development and optimization of transfer strategies.