All Innovation is Social

Here we examine the practice of design in supporting grassroots innovation in two UK organisations, contextualising this within contemporary design philosophy. Following from a historical reading on the relationship between design theory and technology, we contribute a nuanced characterisation of Social Design and Social Innovation where dialectical tensions predetermine design outcomes. We start by describing the recruitment and establishment of 18 months of collaborative research with the organisations, and go on to present initial findings. Through analysis of these design processes and associated tensions that emerged through the collaboration, we proposition for improved participative action and academic impact and advocate that communities should rebelliously take leadership and ownership in both Social Design and Social Innovation and associated research. The paper contributes insights for those working in contemporary ‘big society’ community led design innovation, and research and design researchers who aim to articulate and build common value with the communities with whom they work.