Reimagining Social Innovation Platforms

Abstract

This thesis explores the potential of digital platforms to enhance the practice of Design for Social Innovation (DSI), envisioning platforms as space with potential to inspire, support, and connect projects of positive social change, and the people that work on them, regardless of size and scale. Expert interviews, desk research, and case analysis revealed that while there are platforms that support DSI, they still have barriers to community initiation of, and involvement in, projects whose interventions will directly impact their communities. In response, this thesis proposes a conceptual design of a platform that weaves together social innovation projects across communities and initiatives — reimagining mutual, peer-based support for community led efforts. The platform prioritizes support for grassroots projects, helping community members create the positive change they’d like to see in their communities. The outcome is a prototype that communicates the value of platforms as a space for inclusive collaboration and knowledge-sharing across initiatives and communities, exposing new opportunities for the growth of Design for Social Innovation as a practice.