Methodological Framework for implementing and evaluating Living Labs

Abstract

A Living Lab constitutes a research approach for innovation that challenges the whole research and innovation process in real-life conditions by human, social, cultural, organizational and institutional aspects having an impact on sustainable service, business and technology development. In this sense, Living Labs are experimentation and validation environments characterized by the early involvement of user communities, closely working together with developers and other stakeholders, and driving rapid cycles of ICT-based innovations. There is a lack of formalized methods for implementing and evaluating Living Labs regarding how Living labs act as innovation environments and what is the impact of such Living labs in creating value for users, stakeholders in the setting where they are established. This methodological framework contributes to the determination of the following issues: • Determine and disseminate the efficient practices for creating and implementing Living Labs. • Determine and assess the relative progress and impacts of living labs and understand the determining factors and processes. • Understand how LL influence their rural and regional environments • Understand the different development patterns of Living Labs and understand the determining factors • Assess the performance of the Living labs as innovation methodology