Earlier this year I reflected on the 2017-18 HE-BCI data published by HESA; mentioning the step forward in terms of its presentation as an Open Data set and the bonus FAQs for the more straightforward queries. But I also pointed out how the data can reveal the unexpected and how it is hard to understand the real dynamics, or stories, behind the data sets. In particular, I noted that although the data provides an important snapshot of university knowledge exchange (KE), it’s increasingly recognised that data for KE needs to be more diverse in order to provide a better understanding of KE dynamics within research organisations and with their collaborators. So, as many of our members consider how to respond to the current HESA consultation on the HEBCI data, we thought we would republish the article (see below). You can find similar thoughts in the SpinoutsUK Quarterly Journal June 2019 by OUI's Adam Stotten, who delves into the 'HEBCI fruit basket'.
The HESA consultation closes on Wednesday 11th December, full details available on the website.
Policy newsletter, April 2019
The 2017-18 HE Business and Community Interaction (HE-BCI) data was leased last week by HESA and showed year-on-year increases in almost all categories (consultancy income showed a small drop overall) bringing total UK university-business income to a record £4.5 billion. As Sean Fielding, PraxisAuril Chair said at the time these figures are a “vote of confidence in university expertise and know-how” and demonstrate that the sector is strong even in what we know are difficult economic and political times. PraxisAuril members should feel proud of the role they play in achieving those figures: a contribution which often goes unnoticed (especially when it’s all going well!).