Developing Industry-University Research Links-A Successful Model

This paper describes a successful example of a large programme of industry-university research collaboration in the field of construction engineering and management. It describes how BAA plc, one of the UK's largest construction clients, is working closely with a leading university department undertaking construction engineering and management research. The initial objectives and the anticipated benefits of collaboration for both parties are discussed. The paper outlines, in the form of a case study, how the initial research collaboration links were formed and how they have developed into a major research, technological transfer, education and training programme. It discusses the way in which the research and technological transfer programme in particular was developed, is regularly updated, funded and managed. In addition, the paper describes the current research programme and the tangible benefits for both parties. By way of example, the paper outlines 1 research project in 'knowledge-based engineering' where a generic modelling system is being used to design buildings in the manner that has become known in advanced manufacturing as concurrent engineering. Finally, other areas of current and planned collaboration, in particular in the areas of education and training, are discussed. RESUMÉ Ce papier decrit I'exemple réussi d'un programme de collaboration industrie/univer-site de grande ampleur en faveur de la recherche dans le domaine de I'ingenierie et du management de la construction. II décrit comment BAA pic, I'un des maitres d'ouvrage les plus importants du Royaume Uni, travaille defagon trés étroite avec un département de I'universite de Reading (UK) qui mene des recherches dans le domaine de I'ingenierie et du management de la construction. Les objectifs iniriaux et les benefices attendus de la collaboration de ces deux parties sont abordes. L'article se presente sous la forme d'une etude de cas, montre comment les liens initiaux de cette collaboration se sont formés, comment ils ont mené à un programme de recherche, d ' éducation et de formation important. Il precise la fagon dont le programme de recherche a été développé, comment ilest regulierement remis a jour, finance et dirige. Le papier décrit de plus le programme de recherche actuel et les bénéfices tangibles pour les deux parties. Il présente a titre d'exemple un projet de recherche en 'knowledge-based engineering' et 'concurrent engineering' dans lequel un systeme de modelisation generiqu