Characteristics of the Shimadai-Region Joint Project “Jige-okoshi Project” and effective coordination methods between municipalities and university

Abstract

Shimane University has conducted Jige-okoshi project with regional municipalities to solve local issues. The purposes of this study were to clarify (1) the characteristics of the Jige-okoshi project, (2) the factors of successful and problem cases, and (3) effective coordination methods. The Jige-okoshi projects were the most often implemented in Matsue City and Izumo City. The most common sector was agriculture and agricultural products. Approximately half of the delegates were from the Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences. Successful and problem cases were explained by the direction of the will of the organizations and people involved in the project. As a result, the following three points were important for the success of projects: (1) obtaining funding for activities, (2) promoting mutual understanding and building relationships of trust, and (3) avoiding forced matching. University coordinators need to conduct effective coordination based on these points.