Françoise Chevalier*
Associate Professor, HDR
HEC Paris
*Faculty member ofthe Business Science Institute
Knowledge creation and sharing have become essential levers for innovation and growth. This dynamic is perfectly illustrated by a quote from George Bernard Shaw: “If I have an apple and you have an apple, but we exchange apples, we each go away with an apple... but if you give me an idea and I give you an idea, we each go away with two ideas.” It is precisely this multiplication of knowledge that I wish to address through the concept of the extended academic enterprise.
Knowledge: an intangible, multiplying asset
Knowledge is an intangible asset which, unlike material goods, multiplies when shared. Indeed, the more it is disseminated, the more its value increases. This unique characteristic transforms the knowledge economy into a positive-sum, value-creating game. However, this sector remains under-represented in national accounting systems, despite its recognition at European level via the Joint Research and Development Plans (JRDP).
Sharing and multiplying knowledge
The ability to share and multiply knowledge relies on the ability of academic organizations to extend their modes of transmission and appropriation of knowledge, know-how and savoir-être. In this respect, online knowledge sharing and networking are proving to be particularly effective tools. This is where the concept of the extended academic enterprise comes in, a meta-organization that transcends institutional boundaries to maximize the impact of shared knowledge.
The Business Science Institute: an extended academic enterprise model
The Business Science Institute (BSI) is the perfect embodiment of this innovative model. Bringing together more than 100 professors from a wide range of institutions, and hosting doctoral students from different professions and nationalities, the BSI creates an environment conducive to innovation and value creation. Professors and PhD students freely share their knowledge and values, contributing to a unique system of knowledge transmission and creation.
BSI also stands out for its ability to produce high-value publications. In record time, over 40 books have been published by both teaching staff and doctoral students. This intellectual output testifies to the richness and diversity of perspectives within the institution.
Managed diversity: a source of value
It is crucial to note that diversity, while potentially enriching, can also be value-destroying if not properly managed. The extended academic enterprise favours well-managed diversity, which creates value and generates economic, social, societal and environmental impacts. Diversity must be managed to become a source of sustainable enrichment.
A model for the future
The extended academic enterprise is not just a conceptual innovation, but an operational reality that is transforming the way we create and share knowledge. The future of value creation, both professional and scientific, lies in this innovative and dynamic model. In other words, this model embodies the future of doctoral training and value creation in the academic and professional world.
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