Creating Social Change: From Innovation to Impact

The unit examines the broad spectrum of organisational responses to complex societal challenges, including: how business is creating new products and services that deliver positive social, environmental and economic impact; how social enterprises and social entrepreneurs are using social innovation to create better social outcomes; how design is used for social impact; and how organisations measure and communicate these social impacts to stakeholders. The unit also examines how the financing landscape that supports social progress is changing. It explores the rise of crowdfunding, crowdsourcing, new models of philanthropy, and new forms of social finance that are changing ways in which social change is resourced. Using real-world cases and examples students will gain insight into how positive social change can be created in different contexts.

After successfully completing this unit, students will be able to:

 

1. Demonstrate awareness and understanding of current social challenges and business, public policy and organisational responses to generating positive social impact
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2. Analyse and evaluate organisational and institutional responses to social issues and challenges.

 

3. Collaboratively design and communicate services, products or business models that present innovative solutions to complex social problems.

 

4. Understand future trends and responses to social and economic challenges.