Collaboration: A Pre-Study

Abstract: This thesis explores the factors contributing to successful collaboration within the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix frameworks, with a specific focus on the active involvement of students as stakeholders. A qualitative research approach was adopted, utilising interviews, questionnaires, and action research documented in a diary form, to gather data. The study examines the Creative LAB, an innovation lab initiated by students in the Innovation and Design master’s program at Mälardalens University, as a base for the collaborations with which the data is inquired from. The research employs the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix models as theoretical frameworks to understand collaboration dynamics. Phenomenographic analysis was used to categorise and analyse the experiences of collaboration. The interviews and questionnaires, both addressing the same topic, were transcribed, and subjected to systematic extraction and analysis. The findings are presented in the form of categories, supported by direct quotations and perspectives from the respondents. The research diary served as a reflective tool throughout the thesis, documenting and analysing the obtained results and the work conducted within the Creative LAB. It provided valuable insights into the collaboration dynamics, success factors, and the role of students as active stakeholders in the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix models. By capturing observations and personal reflections, the diary contributed to a deeper understanding of the research findings and enhanced the overall validity of the study. One of the projects, WellBot, is also presented as a case study. In summary, this thesis provides insights into the key success factors for collaboration within the Quadruple and Quintuple Helix frameworks, while also highlighting the significant role of students as active stakeholders. The results shed light on the perceptions and experiences of the participants, offering valuable implications for fostering effective collaboration in the context of academia, industry, and society. In the end, success-factors identified within the study is presented, as well as a questionnaire to identify perceptions on potential collaborations.