Recognition should be the first stage of any innovation journey. It broadly consists of identifying a problem or opportunity to respond to, collecting and assessing readily available knowledge on the issue and context, diagnosing root causes, and properly framing the challenge.
Gaining a deep and insightful understanding of the problem is the key to any successful innovation. The more time spent on understanding the problem, the less the likelihood of developing an inappropriate solution. This stage consists of four modules and results in the creation of your Challenge Brief.
“Clear problem definition is at the heart of successful innovation, through all stages. Focus on identifying, articulating and meeting needs, monitoring progress and changing course accordingly. Failed innovations are often associated with a lack of focus at the start, or conversely a failure to adapt as evidence and learning suggests a need to change the approach.”
HIF Principles of Humanitarian Innovation