Towards an efficient linkage between the university and the software industry in Catamarca

Abstract

This work in progress examines the linkage between the university and the software industry in the province of Catamarca. The research focuses on analyzing the current relationships between both sectors, identifying opportunities, challenges, and areas for improvement. Due to the nonexistence of a value chain definition for this sector, the study presents an adapted proposal, where primary and support activities are classified. Simultaneously, a deep analysis is proposed, identifying and characterizing actors, activities, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration between the university and industry, as well as governmental policies and programs that can influence such a link with the purpose of promoting the growth and development of the software industry in the province, acknowledging the fundamental role of the academic sector in talent training, technology generation and transfer, and quality promotion. Future research lines will include case studies of other regions or countries that have successfully implemented such linkage, promoting the development of specific training and capacity-building programs, evaluation of economic and social impact, and the analysis of cultural and organizational barriers that hinder collaboration.