Work

Governing digital innovations for responsible outcomes – the case of digital healthcare and welfare services

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This paper explores how digital innovation in healthcare and welfare services addresses emerging challenges through the lens of responsible innovation (RI). Drawing on longitudinal case studies of six digital startups, we investigate how stakeholder and user inclusion shape innovation processes. Startups engage in both limited and substantive participation. While non-participation and symbolic participation are common in early ideation and launch phases primarily attract funding, legitimacy and visibility, they can also catalyse strategic reflection. This challenges the dominant view in RI literature that only deep engagement yields responsible outcomes. In contrast, engaged participation throughout enables iterative adaptation and alignment with user and stakeholder needs. These modes of participation serve complementary functions in fostering responsible innovation. However, startups with limited resources face barriers to deliberate inclusion. Intermediary organisations, such as living labs, incubators and accelerators, can help bridge these gaps. We conclude with policy recommendations to strengthen support for inclusive innovation in early-stage ventures.

Source: Journal of Responsible Innovation

DOI: 10.1080/23299460.2025.2576313

Authors: Raj Kumar Thapa, Tatiana Iakovleva

Institutions: Nordland Research Institute, University of Stavanger

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Approaches in Technology and Social Development

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,533