Holistic ecosystems for enhancing innovative collaborations in university-industry consortia

University-industry (UI) consortia are gaining prominence as new organizational platforms that facilitate innovative learning, translation of basic research into applied R&D, and the formation of collaborations. Research has highlighted the benefits of collaborative knowledge-creation within consortia, yet little attention was given for a holistic approach to this platform and to the organizational design framework that is fruitful by participants. Given this research shortage, we interviewed consortia leaders and university/industry participants in order to study what platforms of collaborations are perceived fruitful and desired by consortia leaders and participants. The findings show that consortia managers and participants suggest establishing multiple types of platforms for different sub-clusters within the consortia and offering entry flexibility for new participants by need. These design suggestions depict consortia as holistic ecosystems that facilitate the creation of innovative UI technologies and products.