A Theoretical Discussion of How Common Understanding and Reflection Upon Need for Resources Can Prevent Risks Underlying Social Innovations

Abstract

The welfare state is facing complex challenges. Social innovation is considered as the solution to social challenges and so-called wicked problems, problems in the welfare state that are important, but difficult to solve. This implies being willing to take the risk that is involved when being innovative. A discussion of how different kinds of social innovations carry various risks and how some of these can be prevented, is still limited. This article looks at experiences from previous social innovations and ask what we can learn from them. It elaborates on why social innovation is challenging and what we can do to reduce the risk of failure. The research question is: What risks are at stake in different social innovations, and how can these be prevented? The article highlights risks and issues associated with social or collaborative innovation related to welfare services. It is theoretical and based on innovation theory and previous research, with examples from Norwegian welfare services. The purpose is to explore challenges and risks involved in 4 stereotype versions of social innovation as a result of crossing 2 dimensions of social innovation described above: (a) the degree of novelty and (b) who has initiated the innovation. The article enlightens some aspects of the implementation phase that are important to be aware of if we want to minimize the risk of failure. This concerns the importance of creating a common understanding of the innovation and reflecting on the need for extra resources.