By Crystal Carter, Texas A&M Innovation – September 10, 2024
Innovation Office Responds to Inventor Feedback with New Initiatives
Texas A&M Innovation is implementing a series of new initiatives aimed at enhancing the support provided to inventors, following feedback from a recent survey. The survey was sent to 386 inventors who submitted disclosures in the previous 12-month period, with 112 responses (29% response rate), and focused on key facets of service including promptness, professionalism, overall service, and the likelihood of encouraging future engagement.
The results of the survey reflected a range of inventor experiences, with many respondents offering positive feedback, however, several comments suggested areas for improvement. In response, the Innovation team has outlined a plan to address the feedback and strengthen its support for The Texas A&M University System inventor community.
The primary area being addressed is timeliness of response to inventors regarding their invention disclosures. The office has implemented a new system and dedicated team member to track the progress of every invention disclosure from initial submission, through assessment steps, to a decision about commercial viability. This increased process rigor will ensure responsiveness to inventors on every disclosure that is submitted, leaving no inventor in the dark as to the status.
The Innovation team also is working to enhance its communication efforts to ensure inventors are well-informed about new initiatives and opportunities, including clearer messaging through multiple channels, such as email newsletters, social media, and direct outreach. The team is also exploring new approaches to communications efforts, leveraging existing frameworks of success within and outside of Texas A&M.
Recognizing the value of ongoing education and engagement, the office will expand its outreach efforts. More educational meetings and workshops are being planned to help inventors navigate the invention disclosure process, understand intellectual property rights, and connect with potential industry partners.
Texas A&M Innovation remains dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. By responding to inventor feedback and continually improving its services, the office aims to position Texas A&M as a leader in innovation and technology commercialization.
For more information about Texas A&M Innovation and its new initiatives contact our office directly.
About Texas A&M Innovation
Texas A&M Innovation at College Station works with a diverse array of partners – including entrepreneurs, investors, technology incubators, and large enterprises – to improve lives by commercializing innovations from The Texas A&M University System. Texas A&M research generates more than 300 new technologies each year, providing abundant and varied opportunities for industry collaboration. Learn more about the Texas A&M Innovation technology portfolio.
