Purpose:

To concretize the various factors on students' theses that are perceived valuable and can contribute to corporate profitability. In our investigation, we want to strengthen the understanding of a "win-win-situation" of cooperation between students and businesses.

Methodology:

In this study, we have chosen a qualitative approach in which five personal interviews with various organizations that are active in a knowledge intensive industry. A semi-structured questionnaire was used in our interviews.

Theory:

Our theoretical framework has two broad areas. Introductory chapter is based on theories of research development in Sweden with theories that emphasize the value of collaboration and knowledge. The second chapter deals with a theoretical outlook on value and how this can be applied in marketing.

Conclusion:

The study shows a diversity of values within three broad categories. These are values from relations, marketing and knowledge. In relationships, we found a significant value from a network-based perspective, future recruitment and the value created by the collaboration. The marketing values we detected originated in benefits from taking part of the student network, good reputation spread to individuals and society at large. Small businesses are experiencing an intrinsic value of the student's knowledge, especially if the thesis can satisfy a specific need. The latest theoretical understanding perceived presumptively give small businesses new perspectives and the exam work itself is considered to be a credible source and a reliable reference