In this episode, Kathryn Smith speaks with Sue Starbuck (Royal Holloway University of London) and Sophie Collet (University of Bristol) about how universities can collaborate to achieve efficiencies, strengthen processes, and tackle shared sector challenges.

The conversation draws on themes from the Collaboration for a Sustainable Future report and recent discussions at the ARMA Conference, covering both the potential of joint working and the practical barriers that need to be overcome.

Key discussion points include:

• How system complexity and inconsistent external requirements affect collaboration
• The role of alliances, associations, and shared templates in creating efficiencies
• Avoiding unnecessary duplication and making better use of shared resources
• The importance of trust, governance, and clear value propositions for collaborative projects
• How funding and central support can enable long-term change

Show notes

• Views shared by research talk guests do not necessarily represent the views of Jisc
• ARMA: ARMA – UK's professional association for research managers and administrators
• Brunswick templates: Brunswick Templates – ARMA
• SETsquared partnership: https://www.setsquared.co.uk
• SETsquared IMPACT-IP Programme: IMPACT-IP Programme - SETsquared
• GW4 alliance: Welcome to GW4 - GW4
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• Find out more about the Collaboration for a Sustainable Future report.