ABOUT THE PROJECT
Co-designing a network of public sector design scholars and practitioners in LatAm
Public sector innovation in LatAm increasingly integrates design practices to develop community-centered policy solutions. However, these efforts often go undocumented and face instability due to shifting political landscapes. This project seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and practical implementation by examining how design is applied within innovation units across the region. By mapping these efforts, we aim to provide a clearer understanding of their impact and challenges.
Design practices in these innovation units vary widely and lack comprehensive documentation. Through a participatory research approach, we collaborate with scholars and practitioners to analyze their operations and strengthen the connection between theory and real-world applications. By systematically documenting their work in an open repository, we strive to preserve their contributions, support future research, and foster a resilient network of public sector design professionals.
HOW ARE WE DOING THIS?
01
Building a Public Repository
We are compiling data on public sector design practices across LatAm to improve scholarly analysis and public learning.
02
Conducting a Multilingual Literature Review
Using a custom Python script we analyze academic literature on the subject.
03
Mapping Innovation Networks
We identify key players, projects, and innovation units, with the aim of integrating the findings into a visual network map.
04
Bridging Theory and Practice
This research wants to highlight the challenges these units face while offering practical recommendations for strengthening institutional multinational memory.
WHY DOES IT MATTER?
Despite the increasing recognition of design as a valuable tool in policymaking, its application in LatAm’s public sector remains fragmented. This project sheds light on ongoing efforts, ensuring their impact is not lost to political shifts or lack of documentation. By creating a visual network of scholars and practitioners, we aim to make public sector design context adaptable and effective.
