# 6. R\&D Methods & Enabling Technologies *This chapter introduces methods and technologies that enable our twelve R\&D practices. While not exhaustive, this overview highlights the approaches we use to make big steps forward. Each can be applied flexibly and often works best in combination with others. The entries provide short descriptions to help you select appropriate approaches for your situation and purpose, along with extra resources for guidance on their use.* ## Methods

Figure 42: Art of hosting in Nairobi (June 2023). Participants engaged in facilitated dialogue to surface collective intelligence on climate action.

### Art of Hosting A facilitation approach that engages diverse groups in meaningful conversations and collaborative action on complex issues. Unlike traditional facilitation with fixed agendas, it emphasizes participatory leadership and collective intelligence using World Café,[\[1\]](#footnote-1) Open Space,[\[2\]](#footnote-2) Appreciative Inquiry[\[3\]](#footnote-3) and other methods that surface collective wisdom (Figure 42).\ ↳ *Resources:*[*www.artofhosting.org*](http://www.artofhosting.org/)*;*[*Art of Hosting Companion Guide*](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qlwY6mRBLGiC6QBNRZ6UUK2g4md3kwBB/view)[*\[4\]*](#footnote-4) ### Behavioral Insights A method that applies psychological and behavioral science to understand how people actually make decisions and to design interventions that influence behavior positively. Uses a behavioral lens to uncover why people act differently than intended, revealing hidden drivers and barriers. Enables testing of nudges,[\[5\]](#footnote-5) gamification and other interventions that make desired behaviors easier or more attractive.\ ↳ *Resources:*[*BIT's EAST framework*](https://www.bi.team/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BIT-EAST-1.pdf)[*\[6\]*](#footnote-6)*;*[*BIT’s Field Guide*](https://www.bi.team/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/BIT-Explore-Field-Guide.pdf)[*\[7\]*](#footnote-7)

Figure 43: Citizen scientists analyzing and presenting findings on marine litter in Panama.

### Citizen Science A research approach where communities actively participate in scientific research, from defining questions to collecting and analyzing data about issues affecting them. Transforms people from data subjects into researchers who generate evidence about their own realities.[\[8\]](#footnote-8) Creates both rigorous data and local analytical capacity (Figure 43). Citizen science is most powerful when findings flow back to communities for their own advocacy and action.\ ↳ *Resources:*[*Citizen science for all guide*](https://www.mitforschen.org/sites/default/files/grid/2017/11/20/handreichunga5_engl_web.pdf)[\[9\]](#footnote-9) ### Co-Creation A collaborative approach where different stakeholders work together as equal partners to develop solutions, knowledge, plans and shared visions of the future, combining their unique perspectives and resources. Recognizes that the best outcomes emerge from integrating lived experience, technical expertise, policy knowledge and on-ground know-how. Fosters ownership and ensures outcomes align with actual needs and capabilities.\ ↳ *Resources:*[www.we-build-bridges.com](http://www.we-build-bridges.com/)

Figure 44: Co-design in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Roberteau Tchoffo, Head of Experimentation at UNDP Cameroon's Accelerator Lab, works with young street vendor Hamza Youssoupha to improve a solar-powered kiosk design.

### Co-Design A participatory approach that involves end users and stakeholders as partners in designing solutions, processes and experiments from start to finish. Ensures designs address real needs by including affected communities in defining problems and developing responses together (see Figure 44). Promotes collective experimentation while building stakeholder ownership of the process and its outcomes.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources: Beyond Sticky Notes*[*\[10\]*](#footnote-10) ### Collective Intelligence Design A method for structuring how groups combine diverse knowledge, data and insights to become smarter together than any individual. Creates processes where information flows between different actors, enabling them to collectively understand complex problems, identify solutions, spot emerging issues faster, make informed decisions and coordinate action to adapt to changing conditions.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Collective Intelligence Design Playbook*](https://www.nesta.org.uk/toolkit/collective-intelligence-design-playbook/)*;*[*\[11\]*](#footnote-11)[*Collective Intelligence for Sustainable Development*](https://www.undp.org/acceleratorlabs/publications/collective-intelligence-sustainable-development-getting-smarter-together)[*\[12\]*](#footnote-12)

Figure 45: Community mapping of the Primero de Mayo Central wholesale market in Quito, Ecuador. This visual inventory reveals the relationships, assets and organizational dynamics that have sustained the market’s cooperative structure since 1975.[13]

### Community Consent Rights-based process ensuring communities receive complete information and give consent freely before any engagement begins.[\[30\]](#footnote-30) Recognizes communities as decision makers over their own development, shifting power from external actors to local populations. Foundation for genuine partnership that respects community autonomy including their right to say “no.”\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[Free, prior, and informed consent manual](https://www.fao.org/3/i6190e/i6190e.pdf)[\[31\]](#footnote-31) ### Community Mapping Communities create visual inventories of their assets, resources, relationships and opportunities, revealing strengths often invisible to outsiders. Includes social cartography to map networks and dynamics, ethnographic cartography to layer cultural contexts, and story maps to document local innovations and narratives[\[14\]](#footnote-14) (see Figure 45). Shifts perspective from deficit-based views to asset-based understanding. ### Community Walks A method of walking with residents through their neighborhoods and territories to understand landscapes, histories and daily experiences from their perspective. Reveals how history and memory are layered in local ecosystems while hearing stories and relationships to place firsthand. Includes formats like Jane’s walks for urban exploration and transect walks for systematic observation. Walking together may reveal insights that static meetings miss.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.janeswalk.org*](http://www.janeswalk.org/) ### Crowdsourcing A method that gathers ideas, data or solutions from many people to tap collective knowledge. Often reveals innovations and patterns at the edges while enabling rapid collection of diverse perspectives. Helps build momentum when contributors see how their input creates value and receive recognition for participating.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.ushahidi.com*](http://www.ushahidi.com/); [*A Guide to Data Innovation for Development*](https://www.undp.org/publications/guide-data-innovation-development-idea-proof-concept)[*\[15\]*](#footnote-15) ### Data Collectives An approach where organizations and individuals pool their data to generate insights while maintaining privacy through secure sharing agreements. Includes models like data collaboratives[\[16\]](#footnote-16) and data trusts.[\[17\]](#footnote-17) Reveals patterns and system-wide trends invisible in siloed data. Requires governance frameworks and technical infrastructure that balance collaborative analysis with protecting sensitive information.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.datacollaboratives.org*](http://www.datacollaboratives.org/); [*A Guide to Data Innovation for Development*](https://www.undp.org/publications/guide-data-innovation-development-idea-proof-concept)[*\[18\]*](#footnote-18) ### Data Science Applying statistical methods, algorithms and computational techniques to extract insights from complex datasets, including data mining to discover patterns and relationships. Combines programming, statistics and domain knowledge to surface hidden connections and predict trends. Often paired with data visualization to communicate findings.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*A Guide to Data Innovation for Development*](https://www.undp.org/publications/guide-data-innovation-development-idea-proof-concept)*;*[*\[19\]*](#footnote-19) [www.schoolofdata.org](https://schoolofdata.org/) ### Data Visualization Transforming complex data into visual formats like charts, maps and infographics that make patterns visible and insights accessible to diverse audiences. Essential for communicating findings and enabling participatory analysis. Effective visualizations balance clarity, accuracy and visual appeal using tools like PowerBI, R, D3.js, and Flourish.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.informationisbeautiful.net*](http://www.informationisbeautiful.net/) ### Deep Listening A sensemaking method that explores community narratives to identify perspectives, needs and challenges through multiple listening channels like interviews and community meetings. Creates safe spaces for sharing experiences while building trust, especially valuable in emergencies or rapid change. Uses snowball sampling to expand participation and validate diverse narratives.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*A guide to deep listening*](https://www.undp.org/publications/listening-present-designining-future-guide-deep-listening)[*\[20\]*](#footnote-20) ### Ecosystem Mapping Visualizing the complex web of actors, relationships, resources and value flows to find collaboration opportunities and leverage points. Reveals hidden connections, gaps in the system and unexpected allies that traditional stakeholder analysis might miss. Shows how information, resources and influence move between actors, making power dynamics and dependencies visible.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Mapping innovation ecosystems*](https://serviceinnovationhandbook.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/sih-method3.pdf)[*\[21\]*](#footnote-21) ### Ethnographic Research Researchers immerse themselves in communities to understand culture, daily life and practices through observation and participation. Creates deep understanding of how people actually live and make decisions rather than how they say they do.[\[22\]](#footnote-22) Includes rapid ethnography for time-sensitive contexts and remote variants[\[23\]](#footnote-23) using digital tools. Generates rich insights about local knowledge and hidden innovations. ### Experimentation Testing hypotheses to create evidence about what works or where momentum for change exists, using probes, prototypes and controlled methods like A/B testing or (nimble) RCTs.[\[24\]](#footnote-24) Small-scale tests enable learning from failure safely and cheaply, with unexpected responses often revealing more than confirmed assumptions.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:* [*Experimentation field guide*](https://mada.gitbook.io/experimentation-field-guide)[\[25\]](#footnote-25)

Figure 46: Flow mapping created by the UNDP Kenya Accelerator Lab team at a Collective Intelligence Design workshop on climate adaptation (Istanbul, January 2023).

### Flow Mappings Visual representations showing how resources, information, power or value move through systems and networks (see Figure 46). Creates shared understanding of bottlenecks, dependencies and leverage points for intervention. Dynamic versions using animations or layers capture how patterns and relationships shift over time. ### Foresight Exploring multiple possible futures through systematic, participatory methods like scenario planning and futures wheels[\[26\]](#footnote-26) to help communities and organizations prepare for uncertainty. Enables better decisions today by anticipating trends, disruptions and emerging opportunities that could reshape development contexts.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Exploring futures guide*](https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/migration/ar/PNUDArgent-202203-EN_Explorando-Futuros-final.pdf)[*\[27\]*](#footnote-27) *and*[*Foresight Playbook*](https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/2022-07/UNDP-RBAP-Foresight-Playbook-Appendix-2022_0.pdf);[\[28\]](#footnote-28) [*Foresight manual*](https://www.undp.org/publications/foresight-manual-empowered-futures)[*\[29\]*](#footnote-29)

Figure 47: Finalists from the Mbolo Association present their innovation: 3D printed diaper clips for cotton diapers at the 3D Printing Hackathon in Bakau, The Gambia (January 2020).[32]

### Hackathons Intensive collaborative events bringing together diverse disciplines to rapidly prototype solutions to specific challenges (Figure 47).[\[33\]](#footnote-33) Creates energy and connections across sectors while surfacing unexpected approaches. Effective for engaging innovation ecosystems, identifying collaborators and generating momentum. Requires incubation support to develop prototypes further.[\[34\]](#footnote-34)\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[www.hackathon.guide](http://www.hackathon.guide/) ### Horizon Scanning Systematically searching for weak signals of emerging changes, innovations or disruptions that could reshape development contexts. Identifies early indicators of risks, opportunities and uncertainties that may affect communities. Important signals often appear at the margins rather than mainstream channels. Teams document findings in signal maps[\[35\]](#footnote-35) to reveal patterns and prepare for multiple possible futures.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Exploring futures guide*](https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/migration/ar/PNUDArgent-202203-EN_Explorando-Futuros-final.pdf)*;*[*\[36\]*](#footnote-36)[*Foresight Playbook*](https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/2022-07/UNDP-RBAP-Foresight-Playbook-Appendix-2022_0.pdf)[\[37\]](#footnote-37) ### Human-Centered Design An iterative process placing human needs, capabilities and contexts at the heart of solution development through continuous engagement with affected communities. Moves through cycles of understanding users deeply, defining problems together, ideating solutions, prototyping and testing. Ensures solutions are technically feasible, culturally appropriate and locally sustainable.\ ↳ Resources: [www.designkit.org](http://www.designkit.org/)[\[38\]](#footnote-38) and [Human-centred design playbook](https://www.vic.gov.au/human-centred-design-playbook)[\[39\]](#footnote-39) ### Human Library A method where people share their personal experiences as “living books”[\[40\]](#footnote-40) to build empathy and challenge stereotypes. Creates dialogue spaces that reveal complexity through lived experience rather than theory, while honoring local expertise and facilitating organic networking. Requires thoughtful facilitation to support storytellers while enabling authentic exchange.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.humanlibrary.org*](https://www.humanlibrary.org/)*;*[*Cómo hacer una biblioteca humana*](https://laaventuradeaprender.intef.es/guias/proyectos-colaborativos/como-hacer-una-biblioteca-humana)[*\[41\]*](#footnote-41) ### Innovation Awards Awards that spotlight grassroots innovations and innovators,[\[42\]](#footnote-42) providing visibility, credibility and sometimes resources for scaling. Create opportunities for local solutions to gain national attention, connect with funders and inspire replication in other communities. Most effective when winners receive ongoing mentorship, technical assistance or pathways to implementation rather than one-time prizes.

Figure 48: The Caravan of Innovation travels to remote regions of the Republic of Congo to learn from communities.[43]

### Innovation Caravans Traveling expeditions that visit communities to discover and document local innovations through deep field ethnography (Figure 48).[\[44\]](#footnote-44) Uncover solutions that communities have developed, often unknown to the outside world. Elevate context-specific innovations that inspire adaptation elsewhere and create connections between grassroots innovators.

Figure 49: Learning circle at the DELA Summit in Älmhult, Sweden (June 2023). Participants from UNDP Accelerator Lab Network, IKEA Social Entrepreneurship, and Ashoka gathered to share collective knowledge on circular and informal economies.

### Learning Circles Facilitated generative conversations where diverse knowledge holders explore specific learning questions to accelerate understanding of development challenges (Figure 49). Participants unlock tacit knowledge through dialogue, creating new perspectives and meaning together.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:* [*A rough guide for running learning circles*](https://www.undp.org/acceleratorlabs/publications/rough_guide_learning_circles)[*\[45\]*](#footnote-45) ### Participatory Analysis Communities analyze their own data with appropriate support, building local analytical capacity rather than depending on external experts. Creates sustainable capacity while ensuring interpretations reflect lived experience and contextual knowledge that outsiders often miss. ### Participatory Workshops Structured gatherings that bring diverse stakeholders together for collaborative work, learning and relationship building around shared challenges. Create spaces for collective sensemaking where different forms of knowledge meet and combine. Enable communities to shape research questions, map local knowledge, monitor changes, validate findings and ensure solutions reflect their priorities.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.diy-toolkit.org*](http://www.diy-toolkit.org/)*,*[*www.liberatingstructures.com*](http://www.liberatingstructures.com/)[*\[46\]*](#footnote-46) *and Participatory Workshops*[*\[47\]*](#footnote-47)

Figure 50: Pecha Kucha presentations at the Accelerator Lab Codification Fest in Antigua, Guatemala (May 2024), where Labs shared their R&D journeys and key learnings.

### Pecha Kuchas A dynamic presentation format where presenters show 20 slides for 20 seconds each, forcing concise storytelling and maintaining high energy throughout. Creates space for multiple voices and perspectives to be heard in rapid succession (see Figure 50). Originally developed in Tokyo for architecture presentations, now used globally to prevent presentation fatigue.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.pechakucha.com*](http://www.pechakucha.com/) ### Portfolio Approach Orchestrating multiple interconnected interventions to address complex challenges, enabling learning across initiatives and the wider ecosystem. Portfolios can emerge from R\&D activities or be designed intentionally.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Portfolio Approach Primer*](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mOVog1-sNhb8OI1j2wffoDOCYYIdoI4G/view?usp=drive_link)*;*[*\[48\]*](#footnote-48)[\_ Modernizing development: Introducing portfolios\_](https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/2025-08/undp_modernizing_development_introducing_portfolios_2025.pdf.pdf)[*\[49\]*](#footnote-49) ### Positive Deviance An approach that uses data to identify individuals or communities achieving better outcomes despite facing similar constraints as their peers, then learns from their strategies.[\[50\]](#footnote-50) Includes Data-Powered Positive Deviance (DPPD) for systematic identification. Reveals hidden innovations and practices already working within communities. Shifts focus from deficits to assets by discovering how some succeed where others struggle with the same resources.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.positivedeviance.org*](about:blank)*;*[*DPPD Handbook*](https://www.blog-datalab.com/assets/Documents/DPPDCookbook.pdf)[\[51\]](#footnote-51) ### Proof of Concept A small exercise testing whether an incomplete idea is technically feasible, demonstrating if something can be developed before figuring out how.[\[52\]](#footnote-52) Validates core assumptions with minimal investment by quickly building a working model of specific features. Focuses on technical possibility rather than user experience; refinements come during prototyping. ### Prototyping Creating tangible manifestations of ideas—from paper mockups to role-play scenarios—to test how solutions should look, feel and work.[\[53\]](#footnote-53) Enables rapid learning through user feedback while building shared understanding. Can reveal unarticulated needs when stakeholders interact with prototypes, recognizing value they couldn't express before. Evolves from rough sketches to detailed versions.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Evaluating Social Innovation Prototypes*](https://sicanada.org/2022/10/13/evaluating-social-innovation-prototypes/)[*\[54\]*](#footnote-54) ### Sensemaking Workshops Structured gatherings where groups collectively interpret complex information,[\[55\]](#footnote-55) data[\[56\]](#footnote-56) or experiences[\[57\]](#footnote-57) to develop shared understanding and identify patterns. Brings together different perspectives to make sense of situations that no single viewpoint can fully grasp. Particularly valuable when communities need to understand complex data about their own realities or navigate uncertainty together.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Sensemaking Workshop Guide*](https://www.undp.org/publications/sensemaking-workshop-preparation-guide-and-facilitator-guide-and-sensemaking-training)[*\[58\]*](#footnote-58) ### Social Imagination Creating experimental spaces where communities envision alternative futures beyond current constraints, expanding what's possible. Includes approaches like Dream Labs[\[59\]](#footnote-59) that bring diverse citizens together to build consensus on long-term visions, connecting aspirations across different time horizons with practical development pathways. ### Solution Atlas Digital platform or database that collects, documents and shares[\[60\]](#footnote-60) grassroots innovations in searchable formats. Used to run innovation challenges, map local solutions and connect innovators with technical experts and potential partners. Helps communities discover proven approaches, learn from others' experiences and adapt solutions to their contexts. Supports co-creation and knowledge sharing between innovators facing similar challenges.

Figure 51: A Solution Fair in Khartoum, Sudan (December 2019), where grassroots innovators showcased their solutions and connected with peers, funders and potential partners.

### Solution Fairs Events where grassroots innovators showcase their solutions and connect with peers, funders and potential partners for mutual learning (Figure 51). Designed as relationship-building spaces where the real value emerges from connections that continue long after the event ends. ### Solutions Mapping Systematically identifying and documenting existing solutions within communities or ecosystems, revealing local innovations often invisible to outsiders. Includes snowballing techniques to expand networks, and connects with other methods like solution walks for field observation, solution fairs for bringing innovators together, and solution atlases for documentation.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[SalikLakbay guide](https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/migration/ph/5f4681e429ce32c3081f2dbfe4f2faa0f1204c98fbb3833a690809b50383e45a.pdf);[\[61\]](#footnote-61) *Grassroot innovation workbook*[*\[62\]*](#footnote-62)

Figure 52: Professor Anil Gupta on a “Shodyatra”[63] (solution walk) in the communities near Antigua, Guatemala.

### Solution walks Walking through communities with teams, stakeholders, or residents to observe innovations in their actual context, either exploring openly for serendipitous discoveries or focusing on specific challenges[\[64\]](#footnote-64) (see Figure 52). The act of walking together enables informal dialogue, reveals spatial patterns, and uncovers adaptations.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[SalikLakbay guide](https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/migration/ph/5f4681e429ce32c3081f2dbfe4f2faa0f1204c98fbb3833a690809b50383e45a.pdf)[\[65\]](#footnote-65) ### Stakeholder mapping Identifying and analyzing key actors in a system—their interests, relationships, and relative influence—to understand power dynamics and find potential allies. Reveals hidden connections, competing agendas, and unexpected champions who can advance or block change. Maps capture one moment in time; relationships and influence shift constantly, so regular updates keep insights relevant.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.diy-toolkit.org*](http://www.diy-toolkit.org/) ### Storytelling Using narrative techniques to communicate insights, build empathy, preserve memory, or advocate for change in ways that create emotional connections and resonate with people. Helps people share their experiences in their own words, capture local knowledge, and influence decision-makers. Makes complex development challenges tangible by centering human experiences rather than statistics, moving audiences from awareness to action.\ ↳ Resources: [*Storytelling for systems change*](https://centreforpublicimpact.org/resource-hub/storytelling-for-systems-change/)[\[66\]](#footnote-66)

Figure 53: Issue mapping, collectively exploring and discussing the drivers of an issue (Kigali, September 2019)

### Systems mapping Visualizing complex relationships within systems using various formats like issue maps[\[67\]](#footnote-67) (Figure 53), iceberg model[\[68\]](#footnote-68), causal loops, or affinity diagrams. Maps serve as conversation starters to explore complexity, helping groups develop a shared understanding of patterns, connections, and leverage points.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resource:*[*Student guide to mapping a system*](https://www.mtroyal.ca/nonprofit/InstituteforCommunityProsperity/_pdfs/Student-Guide-to-Mapping-a-System--Fourth-Edition.pdf)[*\[69\]*](#footnote-69) ### Systems thinking Approaching challenges by understanding patterns, relationships, and dynamics between parts rather than analyzing components in isolation. Seeks leverage points where small changes create system-wide shifts, constantly shifting perspective between the big picture and critical details[\[70\]](#footnote-70) to navigate complexity. ### Technology scanning Systematically searching for emerging technologies that could address development challenges or create new opportunities for communities. Examines not only potential benefits but also the new exclusions or dependencies that technologies might introduce. Helps communities anticipate both the promises and pitfalls of technological change. ### Web and data scraping Automated extraction of information from websites, documents, PDFs, and other digital sources to gather data at scale for analysis. Enables rapid collection of publicly available information across multiple sources. Useful for tracking trends, monitoring public discourse, and identifying patterns across dispersed online content. Works best when combined with other data sources to address digital divides.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resource:*[www.schoolofdata.org](http://www.schoolofdata.org/) and [*The data journalism handbook*](https://datajournalism.com/read/handbook/one)[*\[71\]*](#footnote-71) ## Enabling technologies ### APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) Technical standards and protocols that enable different digital systems to connect and share data seamlessly across platforms. Creates interoperability between tools, allowing innovators to combine services and build on existing infrastructure without starting from scratch. ### Artificial Intelligence Using machine learning algorithms to automate analysis, find patterns in large datasets, and augment human decision-making. Enables predictive modeling for early warning systems, automated translation of local languages, and pattern recognition in satellite imagery. Natural language processing analyzes text at scale, computer vision extracts insights from images, and generative AI assists with content creation and synthesis. ### Data analytic tools Software platforms (e.g. PowerBI, R, Tableau, Flourish) that enable sophisticated analysis and visualization of complex datasets to surface insights and support evidence-based decisions. Create interactive dashboards, automated reports, and shareable visualizations that update in real-time as data changes. Make it easier to combine data from different sources and share insights across organizations. ### Digital platforms Online spaces that enable collaboration, learning, and resource sharing across geographic boundaries and time zones. Include communication tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, WhatsApp, Signal, and Facebook groups, as well as meeting platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Butter. Remember that not everyone has equal access to digital technology; consider offering non-digital options for participation too. ### Digital Public Goods Open-source technologies specifically designed for public benefit and that anyone can freely use, modify, and share. Enable countries and communities to build digital infrastructure without vendor lock-in or licensing costs while meeting standards for privacy, security, and accessibility. Sustainability depends on active communities that maintain and improve them over time.*↳ Resource:* [www.digitalpublicgoods.net](http://www.digitalpublicgoods.net)

Figure 54: Drone demonstration in Mashonaland West, Zimbabwe (September 2024). The UNDP Accelerator Lab Zimbabwe, working with local farmers and Japanese technology partner Pegara, uses drone technology to combat destructive quelea bird pests.

### Drones Unmanned aerial vehicles used for mapping, monitoring, data collection, or delivery in areas difficult to access by traditional means. Enable rapid damage assessment after disasters,[\[72\]](#footnote-72) agriculture[\[73\]](#footnote-73) (Figure 54) and reforestation,[\[74\]](#footnote-74) and last-mile medical supply delivery. Create opportunities for communities to gather their own aerial data for advocacy, planning, and documentation of changes over time. ### Geospatial data platforms Collaborative mapping platforms and tools where communities can create, edit, and use geographic data for navigation, planning, and analysis. Includes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for spatial analysis and OpenStreetMap for open-source collaborative mapping. Community mapping builds ownership and surfaces local knowledge but requires training in both tools and data quality standards.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*www.openstreetmap.org*](http://www.openstreetmap.org/)*,*[*geohub.data.undp.org*](https://geohub.data.undp.org/)*,*[*Field Guide to Humanitarian Mapping*](https://mapaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/mapaction_field_guide_to_humanitarian_mapping.pdf)[*\[75\]*](#footnote-75) ### Innovation challenges Time-bound open calls that raise awareness of specific development issues while identifying and attracting innovators for collaboration. Typically run for several months to mobilize diverse problem-solvers, surface unexpected solutions, and connect solution holders with funding, technical support, and scaling opportunities.[\[76\]](#footnote-76)\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[The MaRS Innovation Challenges playbook](https://challenges.marsdd.com/how-it-works/)[\[77\]](#footnote-77) ### Interactive dashboards Dynamic data displays (e.g., PowerBI, Tableau, HDX) that let users explore information themselves, filtering and drilling down based on their specific questions and needs. Enable stakeholders to access the same real-time information, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions without waiting for custom reports. Democratize data access by making complex datasets explorable through visual interfaces..

Figure 55: Low cost sensors to monitor air quality as part of a citizen science initiative in Argentina.[78]

### Internet of Things & sensors Internet-connected devices and sensors that continuously collect real-time data about environmental conditions, movement patterns, or resource usage in communities. Enable communities to monitor air quality[\[79\]](#footnote-79) (Figure 55), track water levels, measure service delivery, and document environmental violations. Creates verifiable data that communities can use to hold governments and companies accountable, demand action, and track whether promises are kept.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[www.smartcitizen.me](http://www.smartcitizen.me/); [Citizen sensing toolkit](https://making-sense.eu/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Citizen-Sensing-A-Toolkit.pdf)[\[80\]](#footnote-80) ### Microsurveys Quick digital survey tools (e.g. Kobo Toolbox, Mentimeter) that enable rapid feedback collection through mobile devices, making data gathering more agile and responsive. Allow communities to share real-time insights about their needs, monitor service delivery, and participate in decision-making. Modern tools support offline collection and SMS integration, expanding reach to areas with limited connectivity. ### Non-traditional data Tapping into unconventional data streams like social media, radio call-ins, satellite imagery, or citizen-generated data to understand issues from new angles. Reveals patterns and trends that official statistics miss, enables real-time monitoring of emerging situations, and surfaces voices often unheard in formal channels.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resource:*[*A Guide to Data Innovation for Development*](https://www.undp.org/publications/guide-data-innovation-development-idea-proof-concept)[*\[81\]*](#footnote-81)*;*[*Collective Intelligence Design Playbook*](https://www.nesta.org.uk/toolkit/collective-intelligence-design-playbook/)[*\[82\]*](#footnote-82)

Figure 56: Example of a Mural board for discussing and refining learning questions.

### Online whiteboards Digital canvases (e.g. Mural, Miro, Kumu) where teams can draw, post notes, and collaborate visually from different locations. Enable participatory workshops to happen online (see Figure 56), with people contributing simultaneously or at different times. Particularly useful for system and participatory mapping, collective brainstorming, analysing information, planning activities, etc.. ### Open data Making datasets freely available for anyone to access, use, and share, democratizing information that was previously locked away. Enables communities to create their own analyses, build evidence for advocacy, and develop solutions based on shared knowledge. When combined with capacity building and accessible tools, transforms raw data into community-driven insights and action.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*opendatatoolkit.worldbank.org*](http://opendatatoolkit.worldbank.org/); [*data.undp.org*](http://data.undp.org/)\_\_ ### Open source licensing Legal frameworks that allow free use, modification, and distribution of software and content while protecting creators' rights. Enables innovations to spread rapidly as communities adapt and build on existing solutions without licensing barriers. Fosters collaborative improvement while accelerating the diffusion of knowledge and solutions across development ecosystems.\ \&#xNAN;*↳ Resources:*[*Open source primer*](https://www.codeinnovation.com/blog/2015/09/our-primer-on-how-to-use-open-source-and-the-creative-commons-in-aid-and-development)[\[83\]](#footnote-83) ### Traditional/official data Government statistics, census data, administrative records, and other official datasets that provide baseline information about populations, economies, and services. Offers historical context, standardized indicators, and comparability across regions and time periods. Creates foundation for evidence-based policy while newer methods like citizen-generated data can fill gaps and add granular, real-time insights from communities.

Figure 56: Augmented reality visualization of Zimbabwe's informal food markets. The Accelerator Lab used AR to make complex supply chain patterns visible and immersive to stakeholders.[84]

### Virtual / augmented reality Immersive technologies that create or enhance experiences through digital overlays or entirely virtual environments, enabling stakeholders to visualize data[\[85\]](#footnote-85) (Figure 56), explore scenarios, or experience distant realities[\[86\]](#footnote-86) (e.g. crisis contexts). Since specialized hardware isn't always available, consider low-tech alternatives like 360° videos on phones or printed panoramic views for broader participation. *** ## Notes 1. See Brown & Isaacs (n.d.) [↑](#footnote-ref-1) 2. See Owen (2008) [↑](#footnote-ref-2) 3. Cooperrider & Whitney (2005); Cooperrider, Whitney & Stavros (2008) [↑](#footnote-ref-3) 4. Nguyen et al. (2022) [↑](#footnote-ref-4) 5. Thaler & Sunstein (2008) [↑](#footnote-ref-5) 6. Service et al. (2014) [↑](#footnote-ref-6) 7. Gyani et al. (2022) [↑](#footnote-ref-7) 8. See for examples: “100 initiatives of Argentina citizen science” (National Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, & UNDP Argentina,2023). [↑](#footnote-ref-8) 9. Pettibone et al. (2016) [↑](#footnote-ref-9) 10. McKercher (2020) [↑](#footnote-ref-10) 11. Nesta (2019). [↑](#footnote-ref-11) 12. Peach et al. (2021). [↑](#footnote-ref-12) 13. Illustrated by José Manosalvas in collaboration with UNDP Accelerator Lab Ecuador and the Territorios que Sanan project. . [↑](#footnote-ref-13) 14. For example, Otros Mapas documents the “Territorios que Sanan” project (see ), a collaborative initiative that beautifully illustrates community mapping in action. It maps the work and knowledge of medicinal plant vendors (hierbateras) in Quito's May First Platform market, led by UNDP Ecuador’s Accelerator Lab in partnership with local cultural and educational institutions. [↑](#footnote-ref-14) 15. UNDP & UN Global Pulse (2017). [↑](#footnote-ref-15) 16. Verhulst & Sangokoya (2015). [↑](#footnote-ref-16) 17. Hardinges (2018). [↑](#footnote-ref-17) 18. UNDP & UN Global Pulse (2017). [↑](#footnote-ref-18) 19. UNDP & UN Global Pulse (2017). [↑](#footnote-ref-19) 20. Agirre Lehendakaria Center & UNDP Bangkok Regional Hub (2023). [↑](#footnote-ref-20) 21. Kimbell (2014, pp 59-63). [↑](#footnote-ref-21) 22. See, for example, the report “Plastics Circularity and Waste Management: An Ethnographic Study.” UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-22) 23. See, e.g. Lupton (2021). [↑](#footnote-ref-23) 24. There are many ways to experiment, from quick and simple tests to more rigorous trials that require more time and resources; see the continuum of experimentation, Christensen, Leurs & Quaggiotto (2017). [↑](#footnote-ref-24) 25. Rye (2019). [↑](#footnote-ref-25) 26. See Smith (2020). [↑](#footnote-ref-26) 27. Acosta et al. (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-27) 28. Krishnan et al. (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-28) 29. UNDP Global Centre for Public Service Excellence (2018). [↑](#footnote-ref-29) 30. See e.g. Cardenas (2024). [↑](#footnote-ref-30) 31. FAO (2016); PNUD Panamá (2024). [↑](#footnote-ref-31) 32. Photo source: UNDP The Gambia, . [↑](#footnote-ref-32) 33. See for example the blog “Hacking into waste management” by UNDP Accelerator Lab The Gambia (2020). [↑](#footnote-ref-33) 34. Research shows that without follow-up support, most hackathon projects fail to continue: only 35% show any activity post event, dropping to 5% after 5 months (Nolte et al., 2020). As Sankaran (2019) argues, hackathons often become “innovation theater”—exciting events where winning ideas get shelved because teams return to their day jobs, lack funding to build prototypes or discover their solutions would cost millions to implement. [↑](#footnote-ref-34) 35. See for example UNDP’s Signals Spotlight (Howe-Jones et al., 2024). [↑](#footnote-ref-35) 36. Acosta et al. (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-36) 37. Krishnan et al. (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-37) 38. IDEO.org (2015). [↑](#footnote-ref-38) 39. Victoria State Government (2020). [↑](#footnote-ref-39) 40. Abergel et al. (2005). [↑](#footnote-ref-40) 41. Epstein Cal y Mayor (2024). [↑](#footnote-ref-41) 42. See for example GIAN’s annual People’s Festival of Innovation: . [↑](#footnote-ref-42) 43. Photo: UNDP Congo. [↑](#footnote-ref-43) 44. See for example Ouedraogo (2020) or N'gouan-Anoh (2020). [↑](#footnote-ref-44) 45. Leurs et al. (2025). [↑](#footnote-ref-45) 46. Lipmanowicz & McCandless (2013). [↑](#footnote-ref-46) 47. Chambers (2002). [↑](#footnote-ref-47) 48. UNDP Strategic Innovation Unit (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-48) 49. UNDP (2025). [↑](#footnote-ref-49) 50. Sternin & Choo (2000). [↑](#footnote-ref-50) 51. UNDP, GIZ Data Lab, & University of Manchester (2021). [↑](#footnote-ref-51) 52. Leurs & Duggan (2018). [↑](#footnote-ref-52) 53. Leurs & Duggan (2018); Houde & Hill (1997). [↑](#footnote-ref-53) 54. Cabaj et al. (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-54) 55. Dervin & Foreman-Wernet (2003). [↑](#footnote-ref-55) 56. Madsbjerg (2017). [↑](#footnote-ref-56) 57. Weick (1995). [↑](#footnote-ref-57) 58. Chôra Foundation (2022). [↑](#footnote-ref-58) 59. Pop Ivanov & Cvetanovska Gugoska (2022), also see Robinson (2022) and Mulgan (2020). [↑](#footnote-ref-59) 60. Documenting and sharing innovations always needs to happen with consent. [↑](#footnote-ref-60) 61. UNDP Accelerator Labs Philippines (2021). [↑](#footnote-ref-61) 62. DOST (2024). [↑](#footnote-ref-62) 63. A journey in search of knowledge, creativity and innovations at the grassroots (see Gupta, 2016, p. 31). [↑](#footnote-ref-63) 64. Also see Gupta (2016, p. 31) who refers to such walks as “Shodhyatra”. [↑](#footnote-ref-64) 65. UNDP Accelerator Labs Philippines (2021) [↑](#footnote-ref-65) 66. Snow et al. (2021) [↑](#footnote-ref-66) 67. Nesta (2019, p. 76) [↑](#footnote-ref-67) 68. See Guerrera (2024) [↑](#footnote-ref-68) 69. Johnson, Papi-Thornton, and Stauch (2022) [↑](#footnote-ref-69) 70. See Heifetz et al. (2009), who use the metaphor of moving between "the balcony and the dance floor" to describe this dynamic of shifting perspectives. From the dance floor, we're immersed in the action and details; from the balcony, we can observe the broader patterns and dynamics of the whole system. [↑](#footnote-ref-70) 71. Gray et al., (2012) [↑](#footnote-ref-71) 72. See PNUD Colombia (2021) [↑](#footnote-ref-72) 73. See Ntuli (2022) [↑](#footnote-ref-73) 74. See Araujo (2021) [↑](#footnote-ref-74) 75. MapAction (2011) [↑](#footnote-ref-75) 76. See Kiarie-Kimondo (2022) for an example of how the Accelerator Lab in Kenya used innovation challenges to source and support grassroots solutions. [↑](#footnote-ref-76) 77. MaRS (2021) [↑](#footnote-ref-77) 78. See National Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation & UNDP Argentina (2023, p. 42). [↑](#footnote-ref-78) 79. Also see the open-seneca initiative: [https://www.open-seneca.org](https://www.open-seneca.org/). [↑](#footnote-ref-79) 80. Woods, et al. (2018) [↑](#footnote-ref-80) 81. UNDP & UN Global Pulse (2017) [↑](#footnote-ref-81) 82. Nesta (2019) [↑](#footnote-ref-82) 83. Code Innovation (2015) [↑](#footnote-ref-83) 84. Snapshot from the UNDP Zimbabwe Accelerator Lab's YouTube presentation on data-driven solutions for the informal economy (UNDP Zimbabwe, 2020). [↑](#footnote-ref-84) 85. See Nthuli (2020) [↑](#footnote-ref-85) 86. See for example PNUD Colombia (2021). [↑](#footnote-ref-86) --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://bas-leurss-personal-organization.gitbook.io/undp-accelerator-labs/doing-r-and-d/6.-r-and-d-methods-and-enabling-technologies.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.