Technological and social innovation: two sides of the same coin. Social innovation ecosystem: highlights from Colombia and France

Abstract

Social problems have always shown a challenge to solve; certain with more urgency than others. However, although there are currently new tools and opportunities to solve them, a more holistic view of these problems is still needed to arrive at a more effective and efficient solution. A relatively new phenomenon within the academy is focused on the study of diverse ecosystems and their behaviors. Following this logic, through collaboration and human networks, all the actors within an ecosystem are empowered and thus participate in the search for a solution. Social innovation ecosystems are a comprehensive tool that helps to understand not only the interactions between all the actors involved, but also the complexity inherent in any innovation ecosystem. Furthermore, social entrepreneurship companies such as Ashoka, show the role of organizations within the Social Innovation Ecosystem and how they can participate in solving these social problems; notwithstanding, in this work it is highlighted that the roles of traditional companies or companies with other approaches are also fundamental for the success of the ecosystem. It is highly important to understand the institutional context and how it can affect complex networks that ultimately affect the success of the ecosystem. Additionally, due to the complexity of these social issues, it is also important to highlight and consider the institutional differences in each country that help all the actors involved and policy makers to implement effective and place-based solutions.