Colleges as agents for construction innovation - a case study

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Morledge, R., 2011. Colleges as agents for construction innovation - a case study. Journal of Construction Innovation: Information, Process, Management, 11 (4). ISSN 1471-4175

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Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to highlight the low level of adoption of innovative products in the UK and to illustrate, through a case study, an investigation into the potential for UK further education colleges (FECS) to extend their existing activity and develop a role as independent centres for specialist knowledge of innovative products. Design/methodology/approach - Two surveys were employed to test assumptions which had been previously published by Government departments (Departments of Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform [BBERR] and Trade and Industry [Dti]) focused on the level of knowledge and experience of construction SMEs regarding innovative products and processes. Six colleges collaborated and successfully bid for funding to test their ability to deliver a wider role in the construction community. Each appointed a full-time fully funded adviser to research, collect and diffuse information about a specific specialist area. Findings - The results indicate that there is evidence of the need for independent sources of information about innovative products. The colleges have shown their ability to build knowledge and capacity to offer independent advice. The outcome indicates, however, that without an effective business case and the commitment of senior college management teams the sustainability of the role is unlikely.

Item Type:

Journal article

Publication Title:

Journal of Construction Innovation: Information, Process, Management

Creators:

Morledge, R.

Publisher:

Emerald

Place of Publication:

Bingley

Date:

2011