Generating and developing knowledge are processes which are carried out in a dialogue between members of a research community – locally and globally. As a result, research activities have traditionally been organised within specialised departments.

This organisation structure is breaking up. Instead, more informal types of co-operation are set up, organised as centres and research groups. One main reason for this is the idea that different subject areas interact on variuos levels and have several professional interests in common.

Knowledge across subjects and disciplines

The results that within the past 10 to 20 years have been accomplished within interdisciplinary research projects have been impressive. In most cases it has led to the recognition of "new" research disciplines such as cognitive science, communication, ethical management, etc.

Close co-operation with the business community

Another factor behind this development is the changing conditions for the sharing of knowledge. Previously, the universities saw themselves – rightfully or not – as institutions with a monopoly of knowledge. Today, we face a different set of realities.

More and more private enterprises operate within the knowledge market, generating and developing knowledge within various areas.

Add to that a considerable growth in the number of sector research institutions within the public space.

Now, it is both natural and necessary for the universities to enter into co-operation and to share knowledge with these companies and organisations within a flexible framework of research projects and programmes.