It's one of several initiatives being spearheaded by the Oregon University System directed at building stronger partnerships between the work world and the academic world in Oregon. Knowledge Exchange has been operating for about two years. What is does is broker the critical linkage between academic expertise and the needs of businesses. We've got Ducks, Pioneers, Beavers, Pilots, Vikings Faculty from all of Oregon's public universities, independent colleges and community colleges are involved. They're ready to offer knowledge and assistance to help local firms overcome technical, management or other problems.
Costs vary according to the complexity of the project.
But whatever the cost, it's a win-win situation for all involved parties. Companies gain immediate access to experts who can apply their knowledge and experience to solving complex questions or issues that cannot be solved with in-house resources. Or they can involve their students directly with the company. As educators, we in academe know that one of our problems has been finding enough opportunities to provide that kind of experience for all of our students. But now, thanks to SAO and its terrific software, we're using new technology to overcome the status quo.