Reform Lab
Methodology

How we work

Every solution we develop passes through the four phases of the innovation cycle — from naming the need to transferring a proven solution into the system.

The innovation cycle

Four phases, one goal

1 · NEED & IDEA

We analyse data, existing policies and practice at home and abroad. The novelty of a solution is always judged against what already exists — in the given context, region and for the given target group.

2 · DESIGN & PROTOTYPE

We develop the solution into concrete form together with stakeholders. We define the theory of change: what problem we solve, through which activities, with what results and impact.

3 · PILOTING

We test the solution in real conditions, at limited scale and with rigorous measurement of results. The pilot phase lets us verify effectiveness before the solution spreads.

4 · SCALING

We prepare the proven solution for transfer to other places, institutions and public policies — so its benefit reaches a wider group of people, not only the pilot's immediate surroundings.

Principles

What guides us

Cross-sector networking

We involve actors from several sectors — public, private and non-profit. We build consortia in which each member contributes what they are strongest at.

Open co-creation

Solutions aren't designed at a desk. Target groups, practitioners, municipalities and others bring and share their knowledge, experience and resources throughout — from design to evaluation.

Multidisciplinarity

We look at societal problems in a broader context and combine insights from several disciplines — social work, economics, education, technology and public administration.

Measurable impact

For every project we define up front how we will measure and assess its positive social impact — with indicators, data collection and, where possible, independent evaluation.

Changing relationships, not just services

For us, innovation isn't only a new service. It also means new rules of cooperation — strengthening the voice of target groups, decentralising decision-making and partnerships that change established ways of working.

Sustainability

Already at the design stage we plan what happens to the solution after the project ends — who takes it over, how it will be financed and how it enters everyday practice or public policy.

Measuring impact

Change that can be demonstrated

Social innovation is not an end in itself. Its purpose is to solve a societal problem in a new way with a demonstrably better positive impact than existing approaches. That's why measurement and evaluation are part of every project from day one:

  • for every project we define a theory of change — the logical link between need, activities, results and impact,
  • we set measurable indicators and target values before delivery begins,
  • we continuously collect and evaluate data on results for target groups,
  • we share results with partners, policymakers and the expert community, so others can learn from proven solutions.

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