A goal of the SIHI Network is to learn from successful social innovations such that lessons and impact can be scaled to strengthen health systems in low- and middle-income countries. Following innovation identification, through our crowdsourcing calls, we set out to select social innovations for in-depth study.
Social innovations are selected using the following criteria as well as expert review to determine cases offering a high-potential of valuable learning.
Degree of innovativeness
The approach is new, different or a significant improvement within the context to which it is being applied.
Affordability
The solution is affordable by the poor, who are otherwise excluded in the local context or the solution is more cost-effective than the status quo.
Inclusiveness
The approach has the potential to be used by a large number of people, enhancing equity and access.
+ 4 Country-specific criteria
Each independent review panel identified four additional selection criteria that were country-specific based on national priorities.
Effectiveness
The solution has demonstrated a positive outcome on the local population’s health.
Our country teams of researchers travel to each selected social innovation and spends several days with them to experience the work first hand. We seek to gain a deeper understanding of the social innovator/ creator of the project, the ins and outs of the project itself as well as the local community. At the same time, we make a short film of each project for promotional purposes.