This is how we test the future
A "living lab" is not a theory but a way of working: we develop and measure ideas in a real-world environment, together with users — what works is not decided at the desk.
Traditional research often seeks answers under closed conditions and then "takes" the results out into the world — where it turns out that reality is more complex. The living lab reverses this: we bring the inquiry to the very place where the question arises, and we work together with those it affects.
This approach is one of the proven forms of open innovation: users are not the subjects of research but its co-designers, and the solution takes shape step by step, out of the feedback received.
Principles
Our operating principles
The work of Living Lab is defined by three principles that apply to every research and development process.
Real-world environment
We examine solutions where they also have to work in practice. Development, pilots and tests take place not in an isolated laboratory setting but in real situations.
Co-creation
The development of solutions involves all stakeholders. The knowledge of researchers, experts, institutions, businesses, users and other stakeholders is present from the very start of the development process.
Iteration
We feed the lessons of testing back into development. We measure, evaluate, learn, adjust, and then, if needed, test again.
The process
Five recurring steps
Living-lab work is not a linear project but a repeating cycle. These five steps return round after round.
Challenge exploration
We understand the problem, the environment and the needs of those involved.
Co-development
Together with the stakeholders we shape the possible solutions.
Prototype & experiment
We turn the chosen solution into a testable form and try it out in a real-world environment.
Measurement & evaluation
Using data and user experience, we examine what works and what does not.
Learning & knowledge sharing
We build the experience into the next iteration, document it and share it.
Why a cycle, and not a project?
Because the lessons raise new questions. The end of one round is the start of the next — this is how the method becomes continuous learning rather than a one-off intervention.
In practice
Where will you encounter this?
The methodology takes shape in two places: in the Knowledge Base, where we organise the knowledge, and in Projects, where we put it to the test on real ground.
Would you like to try this on your own question?
We help you design a living-lab process — from framing the question, through measurement, to sharing the lessons.