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Three Dimensions of Transformative Impact and Capacity: A Conceptual Framework Applied in Social Innovation Practice

Author

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  • Tim Strasser

    (Maastricht Sustainability Institute, Maastricht University, 6211 ME Maastricht, The Netherlands)

  • Joop de Kraker

    (Maastricht Sustainability Institute, Maastricht University, 6211 ME Maastricht, The Netherlands
    Department of Environmental Sciences, Open University, 6419 AT Heerlen, The Netherlands)

  • René Kemp

    (Maastricht Sustainability Institute, Maastricht University, 6211 ME Maastricht, The Netherlands
    United Nations University—Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT), United Nations University, 6211 AX Maastricht, The Netherlands)

Abstract

This article empirically applies, tests, and refines a conceptual framework that articulates three dimensions of transformative impact and transformative capacity: depth, width, and length. This responds to the need for a more precise conceptual language to describe these terms and operationalize them in a way that is useful for practitioners in social innovation networks. By applying this framework in diverse cases of social innovation networks, we demonstrate how the framework can serve to identify and assess transformative impacts and the capacities needed to bring about these impacts. Our findings include 1. empirical substantiations, 2. refinements, and 3. interaction effects among the elements of the framework. We also subjected the framework to an appraisal by practitioners in social innovation networks regarding the recognizability of the framework elements and usefulness for practice. The framework was generally perceived as very meaningful and valuable for social innovation practitioners as a way to understand, assess, strategically design and evaluate their transformation efforts. Drawing on feedback by practitioners, we offer recommendations for further research and development of the framework to improve its usefulness in practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Tim Strasser & Joop de Kraker & René Kemp, 2020. "Three Dimensions of Transformative Impact and Capacity: A Conceptual Framework Applied in Social Innovation Practice," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(11), pages 1-40, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:12:y:2020:i:11:p:4742-:d:369830
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Niranjan Casinader, 2021. "What Makes Environmental and Sustainability Education Transformative: A Re-Appraisal of the Conceptual Parameters," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(9), pages 1-10, May.
    3. Rosalba Ortiz & Jordi Peris, 2022. "The Role of Farmers’ Umbrella Organizations in Building Transformative Capacity around Grassroots Innovations in Rural Agri-Food Systems in Guatemala," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(5), pages 1-25, February.

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