Futureworks

Futureworks is a new line of work at the Media and Journalism Research Center (MJRC). It develops and tests applications, platforms and services in information, technology, communication and other fields where research can help address practical problems.

Creating a prototype or registering a company is increasingly straightforward. Establishing whether a service meets a genuine need, testing it with relevant users, ensuring that its information is reliable and building a sustainable operation are often more difficult.

MJRC contributes its research experience, methodological expertise and international networks. Depending on the project and available resources, it may also support technical development, access to data, testing, partnerships and the practical work needed to operate a service.

Futureworks welcomes proposals from anyone with a relevant idea, with particular encouragement for students and early-career innovators. Participants may propose their own projects or contribute to initiatives already under way.

Before substantial collaborative work begins, MJRC and the participants agree on contributions, responsibilities, intellectual property rights, credit and any compensation or commercial arrangements. Submitting a proposal does not transfer intellectual property rights to MJRC.

Where a project becomes commercially viable, it may be developed through a separate company in which its creators and MJRC participate on agreed terms. MJRC may also help creators establish independent ventures.