Reflexive programme monitoring

 

Use for

Reflecting on the progress and effectiveness of a transition programme so that any necessary adjustments can be made.

Principles

The method is based on recent insights into the monitoring and evaluation of transition processes, the multi-level perspective and the analytical model of the Technological Innovation System approach (TIS). The results are primarily intended for the programme management.

What do you do?

To start with, you make a description of the current status of the programme containing the long- term vision, the objective, the obstacles to and engines for innovation (on this point, see TIS method), the portfolio of activities and a list of the actors.

You then describe whether the implementation of the programme is on schedule and describe bottlenecks and unforeseen circumstances in the implementation of the programme.

You also make a survey of the environment, mapping developments in the social environment that could have an impact on negative factors in the innovation system.

Finally, you organise a dialogue between the immediate stakeholders in which they conduct a dialogue focusing on two questions. First, will the programme make the anticipated contribution to removing the obstacles and reviving faltering engines? Second, should the objective and the activities of the innovation programme be revised in response to the answer to the previous questions?

The idea is that you use the method quite regularly so that the programme can be steered in response to new developments and insights.

Prerequisites

The method is very useful for programmes targeted at technological innovation systems. The methodology needs to be adapted if it is being used for programmes targeted at a sector, a product chain or a particular area.

More information

Taanman, M. (2014). Looking for transitions. Monitoring apprach for sustainable transitions programmes TNO, Drift.

Used by

Roald Suurs, TNO: Roald.Suurs@tno.nl or Rob Weterings, TNO: rob.weterings@tno.nl