Mapping RMIT capabilities in Design for Social Innovation: A Conceptual Paper
November 2019
Project Lead: Professor Laurene Vaughan
Research Officer: Caroline Francis
Summary
This conceptual paper navigates the surrounding facets of Design for Social Innovation within the context of literature, the expertise, perspectives and activities within RMIT. Also considered here are the external competitors with potential learnings and partnering opportunities, the placed parameters required for the success of a Design for Social Innovation network, opportunities in social issues and identified funding sources, and finally outreach openings to existing RMIT branches beyond Australia to leverage networks in Vietnam and Barcelona.
Worldwide we face unprecedented challenges whilst simultaneously being presented with previously unimaginable opportunities. These challenges and opportunities are social, cultural, technological and environmental. They are complex and beyond the domain of any
one discipline expertise. To address these, there is a greater need for researchers to collaboratively contribute on designs for social innovation that are effective in navigating our future by tackling issues of sustainability, health, technology, and social exclusion of vulnerable people. This research, maps and profiles the internal RMIT capabilities and expertise in the field of design for social innovation (DSI). Identified competitors and partners are reviewed for furthering RMIT’s strengths, synergies and research opportunities. Overall, aiming to validate the proposed DSI Network for meaningful and collaborative connections.
Suggested Citation
Vaughan, L., Francis, C. (2019). Mapping RMIT Capabilities in Design for Social Innovation – A conceptual paper. Melbourne: RMIT University.
If you would like to get involved with this project, fill out the form below or reach out to project leaders via the contact info provided alongside each bio.
People
Laurene Vaughan
Professor and Dean
School: School of Design
Professor Laurene Vaughan is Dean of the School of Design at RMIT. She is internationally recognised as a leader in interdisciplinary and applied design research and pedagogy. Professor Laurene Vaughan has a diverse research and teaching practice covering the areas of design, communication, fashion and embedded research in diverse industry sectors. Laurene currently also contributes to the University research community through being a Research Leader in the RMIT Design Research Institute.
Design & Creative Practice
Impact Observatory
Join the mailing list
RMIT University and the Design & Creative Practice ECP acknowledges the Kulin Nations as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the University stands. The University respectfully recognises Elders both past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of lands across Australia where it conducts its business, their Elders, Ancestors, cultures and heritage.