Knowledge and Research Utilization in Public and Private Sectors: A Conceptual Model

The purpose of this paper is to review and synthesize the literature on knowledge and research utilization. In particular, we focus on the transfer of research knowledge created by public institutions and its utilization by public and private actors. To organize the literature that has been published over the past two decades, a conceptual model of knowledge and research utilization in the public and private sectors is developed. This conceptual model is not limited to the point of utilization by the recipient. By including four broad dimension, it covers the entire process from the transfer of knowledge and research up to its actual utilization. We show how these dimensions are affected by independent variables which have been identified by prior research. Three types of use (i.e., symbolic, conceptual, and instrumental use) and seven stages of utilization represent the process of knowledge and research use by the recipient. The proposed model allows us to systematically review and synthesize an area of research which is considered to be "underdeveloped". Through pointing out implications for practice and further research, this paper intends to contribute to the literature on knowledge and research utilization.