Collaborating for real impact: how innovation projects can succeed
Damla Diriker studied how people and organizations can collaborate more effectively on major societal challenges such as climate change, healthcare, and digital transformation. Although collaboration is often seen as the key to innovation, her research shows that many projects fail because collaboration is poorly organized.
Diriker demonstrates that successful collaboration requires three elements: a shared understanding of the problem, a good balance between openness and structure, and linking local solutions to broader systemic goals. When these come together, more sustainable and meaningful results emerge.
Her research offers practical guidance for organizations and policymakers seeking to address complex issues. It highlights that collaboration requires both clear structure and flexibility, and that tensions between interests or levels need not be obstacles but can instead serve as opportunities for learning and renewal.
