The process of knowledge transfer has been extensively studied in the context of a variety of theoretical considerations. In this paper the authors adopt a communication theory perspective and focus on capacity for dissemination. Many studies assume that universities are able to disseminate and commercialize their knowledge (and technology). However, it has been shown in practice that dissemination and commercialization can be problematic. Following a review of the literature, the authors identify four topics connected with dissemination capacity: (1) the purpose of knowledge transfer; (2) the transformation of knowledge; (3) the importance of valuable knowledge from a respectable source; and (4) issues of network and inter-organizational dynamics that offer suggestions for further research. For each of these four topics, propositions are formulated as signposts for further studies and the implications for research in this area are outlined.

The process of knowledge transfer is extensively studied from a variety of theoretical orientations. In this study the authors adopt a communication theory point of view as their orientation and focus on the dissemination capacity. After a review of the literature the authors focus on the disseminative capacity of universities and formulate four propositions that give directions for further research.