Towards an integrated framework for evaluating transformative innovation policy

In recent years, a new frame for innovation policy has emerged, namely “transformative innovation policy” (TIP), which aims at addressing transformative change or “Grand Challenges”. Such a shift in policy theory should, ideally, be reflected in policy evaluation, but the literature has so far provi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Research policy Vol. 52; no. 2; p. 104676
Main Authors: Haddad, Carolina R., Bergek, Anna
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: Elsevier B.V 01.03.2023
Subjects:
Behavioural additionality
Directionality
Policy evaluation
Transformative innovation policy
Directionality
Policy evaluation
Behavioural additionality
Transformative innovation policy
ISSN:0048-7333, 1873-7625
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:In recent years, a new frame for innovation policy has emerged, namely “transformative innovation policy” (TIP), which aims at addressing transformative change or “Grand Challenges”. Such a shift in policy theory should, ideally, be reflected in policy evaluation, but the literature has so far provided little advice on how to address TIP-related evaluation challenges such as directionality and system-level behavioural additionality. This paper discusses how the evaluation of policy interventions targeting system innovation can be designed to address these challenges. Combining the literature on sustainability transitions with policy evaluation, we propose an integrated evaluation framework composed of three main components: (i) programme theory (programme goals, systems boundaries and desired (or accepted) development paths); (ii) system analysis (transformative outcomes); and (iii) synthesis and overall assessment (including revision of programme theory). By integrating the two sets of literature, we provide a bridge between academic research on transitions and current evaluation practices. We briefly illustrate the applicability of the integrated framework in the BioInnovation Strategic Innovation Programme in Sweden. •Transformative innovation policy translates into new challenges for evaluation.•These include capturing directionality and additionality at the system level.•An integrated framework addresses these challenges by combining perspectives.•The evaluator can shed light on directionality by assessing the trajectory of change.•Additionality is assessed through causal mechanisms and transformative outcomes.
ISSN:0048-7333
1873-7625
DOI:10.1016/j.respol.2022.104676