Social Factors Influencing University Technology Transfer and Commercialization: A Review Study

Mahdi  Khayatan; Jahangir  Yadollahi Farsi; Shayan Khajeh  Hosaini

doi:10.18502/mshsj.v10i2.19842

Mahdi Khayatan Ph.D. student of Entrepreneurship, Department of Technological Entrepreneurship, School of Entrepreneurship, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Jahangir Yadollahi Farsi Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
Shayan Khajeh Hosaini Ph.D. student of Entrepreneurship, Department of Technological Entrepreneurship, School of Entrepreneurship, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/mshsj.v10i2.19842

Keywords: University technology transfer, University technology commercialization, Social factors

Abstract

Objective: University technology transfer and commercialization are key pillars of the knowledge-based economy; however, their success is not limited to organizational and economic structures. Despite numerous studies, the role of social and cultural factors has not been comprehensively addressed. The aim of this study is to identify and analyze the social and cultural dimensions influencing this process through a review approach and to provide an integrated picture of the current situation.

Information sources and selected methods for study: This review study was conducted based on non-systematic review method and the PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search was carried out in Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using defined keywords, with a five-year time limit for English articles and a ten-year limit for Persian articles. Out of 347 initially retrieved studies, after multi-stage screenings (removing duplicates, reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts), 22 articles were finally selected for analysis.

Results: A review of the literature indicates that various social factors influence the transfer and commercialization of university technology. Social trust, as the primary foundation for the establishment of sustainable collaboration between universities and industry, plays a fundamental role. The culture and organizational structure of universities can also act either as facilitators or as obstacles along the path of innovation. Furthermore, the institutional environment and the capabilities of technology transfer offices are of significance in reducing barriers and creating effective linkages between academia and industry. Ultimately, university policymaking is recognized as the principal guiding factor in this process.

Conclusion: The commercialization of university technology is not merely an economic process; rather, it requires the synergy of social, cultural, and institutional factors. Success along this path depends on trust between universities and industry, flexible organizational structures, and capable technology transfer offices. At the policy-making level, an integrated and forward-looking approach can pave the way for the sustainable development of innovation ecosystems.