HEI-SME alliances: Internal considerations and a conceptual matrix for HEIs

Mcallister, Katie (2024). HEI-SME alliances: Internal considerations and a conceptual matrix for HEIs. EdD thesis The Open University.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21954/ou.ro.00097386

Abstract

By forging strong partnerships with Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs), Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can play a vital role in driving economic growth whilst leveraging these links to address the policy challenges facing HEI in today's rapidly changing global market such as league table standings (e.g., graduate outcomes, employability). Yet there exists little literature relating to the internal considerations for HEIs wanting to construct or develop alliances with SMEs. My key research question, ‘What conclusions can be drawn to develop a conceptual framework regarding the internal considerations for HEIs wishing to construct or develop alliances with SMEs?’ is founded upon creating a more secure internal base for HEIs and employer engagement staff (EES) wishing to construct or develop alliances with SMEs.

This thesis investigates what the internal considerations are for HEIs wishing to construct or develop their HEI-SME alliances through a multi-faceted review of the current literature and the reality of HEI practice, from the viewpoints of employer-engagement staff (EES). With consideration of the existing body of knowledge, I develop a conceptual framework. Through an interpretivist paradigm and institutional theory, a case study methodology is applied to 9 English HEIs to capture the unique experiences of EES. The main findings of my study suggest that EES knowledge and commercial experience, responsive CPD, inter-departmental working, an effective HEI-wide customer relationship management (CRM) systems, identification and expression of value to the SME, HEI-wide standardisation, and effective evaluation of HEI-SME projects should be considered by HEIs wishing to maximise their effectiveness. My conceptual matrix suggests a way of studying and reconceptualising the overarching internal mechanisms by which the HEI manages the SME alliance creation. The original contribution of this thesis is to provides a rich, alternative lens by which to explore HEI internal considerations by collating the voices of EES. Whilst other studies have provided the overarching themes and elements of the HEI-SME alliance creation, my study uncovers the multiple and diverse internal elements to provide the HEI with a more detailed picture of what is happening in the sector to better inform practice.

Viewing alternatives

Metrics

Item Actions

Export

You can export this page using these formats Digital Object Identifier - DOI