Innovating in a dynamic technical context - Water Scarcity, Livelihoods and Food Security - page 101

Box 5.2 The principles of research for development (see
Chapter 3)
• A focus on encouraging people to innovate rather than only on
research products and technologies.
• Innovators are embedded and interdependent in the local institu-
tional, policy and political contexts.
• Focuses on a defined objective within a development challenge
using an adaptive approach.
• Users are involved so that their knowledge, perspectives and needs
are integrated into the project.
• Analysis and taking account of lessons learned.
• Science and research is not at the center of the work, but is part of
the social process by which people innovate.

Impacts and
consequences

Changes in
practice (outcomes)

Other information
sources and
influences

Influence on
decision maker KAS

Engagement
and dialogue

Learning
and redesign of
innovation

Technical and
institutional
innovation

Learning
and problem
redefinition

Problem
definition

Figure 5.1 Conceptual framework showing where technical research fits in the process
of innovation. KAS = knowledge, attitudes and skills. Research outputs are more likely
to change outcomes (decisions, practice) when they influence KAS.
Source: Authors.