A framework for the opportunity recognition process in UK entrepreneurial universities

Abstract

This study aims to develop an empirical framework for the opportunity recognition process in UK entrepreneurial universities. Initially, a conceptual framework was developed resulting from reviewing the literature relating to the factors that determine the opportunity recognition process as well as the factors that differentiate entrepreneurial universities. The framework was also affected by the principles of Resource-Based Theory (RBT), which underpins the present study. A multiple case study approach was adopted to validate the above-mentioned framework. Data was collected by using three main methods: website content, documented secondary data, and twenty-five semi-structured in-depth interviews with enterprise/entrepreneurship centres directors and academic deans (each lasted between 41 and 109 min). Two techniques were used to analyse the data: Template Analysis (TA) and Framework Analysis. The findings show that in addition to the identification of the factors that determine the opportunity recognition process, it is vital to consider the context when recognizing entrepreneurial opportunities, and it is important to find an optimal mixture of resources/capabilities to guarantee effectiveness in the process of entrepreneurial opportunity recognition.