Exploring the assessment of territorial potential for social innovation: an indicator system applied to a region in Ecuador

Abstract

One of the key elements in territorial dynamics processes is Social Innovation since we can improve our regional sustainable systems from the relationship and participation among territorial agents. However, this concept is still poorly explored and does not currently have a commonly-agreed definition and a complete assessment system, based on which strategies for improvement might be designed to guarantee regional sustainability. As a result, it has limited capacity for contributing to development. In accordance with the above, the main aim of this article is to explore the concept of Social Innovation and to asses it, designing a system of indicators capable of measuring territorial potential for social innovation, applicable to any region and adapting to its specificities and necessities. This work also aims to use a case study application, using a Ecuadorian region, to design an indicator assessment tool for social innovation, which integrates the main Social Innovation dimensions. This article makes contribution to the international debate on Social Innovation since it offers real input, potentially encouraging social change and the improvement of society’s wellbeing.