Guidance in the city: improvement through the demand acceleration methodology

The innovation challenge "Guidance in the city".

How can we, through digital tools, assist individuals with impaired cognitive abilities in creating strategies for increased independence as they navigate society? Individuals with impaired cognitive abilities may not always be able to comprehend information, guidance, and support in the way it is presented in the city. They require tailored information and customized support to navigate independently. This is a significant group of people who are affected. 

The results from the innovation challenge "Guidance in the city" could offer these individuals greater security and inclusion in society. At the same time, it could also contribute to a higher degree of self-efficacy and independence. If guidance can be provided digitally to a greater extent, it also frees up resources in the public sector and leads to increased security and independence for caregivers as well.

For over a year and a half, Karlstad Municipality and the Department of Care and Social Services have been conducting development work together with several innovative companies and future users, following the Demand Acceleration methodology. Process management has been provided from the EDIH Health Data Sweden and the partner DigitalWell Arena. This approach integrates procurement, innovation, and development, with a focus on outcomes and user benefits.

We addressed the challenge by using the Demand Acceleration (DA) methodology to find a tailored solution for the public sector’s needs. The purpose of each phase in the methodology is swift decision-making about the next phase, while ensuring that we have the prerequisites to reach implementation and scaling.

The needs analysis becomes integrated throughout the entire process, without specifying details at the start.

Continuous interaction and co-creation between customer and suppliers with the innovation throughout the stages of development creates new insights into needs, requirements, and solutions.

A challenge was defined, and a need vaguely formulated by the healthcare and welfare administration, anchoring this within the Public Sector organisation (PSO), and a Public Procurement Act lawyer engaged.

Gathering information and generating interest among potential suppliers through market dialogues and publishing a Request for Information (RFI) that achieved nine responses, resulted in a decision to tender, and proceed with the DA method.

Requirements and criteria were agreed, before publishing the tender on a digital portal for public procurement. 12 responses were received, and following presentations, dialogues and evaluations, five suppliers were offered to proceed with the concept phase.

The PSO offered meetings and training opportunities to provide insight into the operation, the end users, and the process. Three suppliers were offered to proceed with the prototype phase.

Evaluation employs reverse logic, assessing solutions based on contract objectives and potential to scale. The KTH Innovation Readiness Level tool (KTH IRL) evaluates both solution and market potential, with requirements escalating at each phase.

Personnel, time, and budget allocations by the PSO are crucial for achieving desired outcomes. Suppliers contribute resources and funding for development and scaling post-delivery.

Potential expansion to diverse target groups is already evident.

SME:

• Direct Customer Collaboration: SMEs work closely with both the end customer and end user to create a tailor-made solution that perfectly meets their needs.

• Real-World Testing: Solutions are tested in real-life scenarios with actual end users, ensuring their practicality and effectiveness.

• Public Sector Funding: Financial support from public sector programs is available throughout the product development process, reducing financial pressure and fostering innovation.

• Collaborative Opportunities: SMEs have the chance to partner with other suppliers, fostering collaboration and enhancing their solution's potential.

• Shared Innovation Risk: The risk of innovation is distributed, making it easier for SMEs to innovate without bearing the full burden of potential challenges.

• Market Expansion: Participation in such projects can open doors to new markets, increasing growth potential.

PSO:

• Innovative, Tailored Solutions: PSOs benefit from innovations designed specifically for their needs while sharing the risk of the innovation process with the SMEs.

• Reduced Investment Risk: The process can be halted if a suitable solution isn’t found, mitigating financial loss.

• Lowered Operational Risk: Since SMEs retain intellectual property (IP) rights and manage the solution, PSOs benefit from more sustainable and viable products or services.

• Increased Efficiency: Tailored solutions improve workflow and service delivery, enhancing overall organisational efficiency.

EDIH Health Data Sweden, through its partner DigitalWell Arena, provides comprehensive process management, ensuring smooth progress and effective results.