Living Labs
The utilisation of the “Living Lab” approach which harnesses real-world user feedback from users in real-world settings combined with rapid product iteration and human-centric design is critical to the CDHT approach.
This methodology strengthens the value proposition of new products and services, and ensures that the innovation process is de-risked and rapid.
The team have been active members of Enoll (The European Network of Living Labs) since before 2006 and are very experienced in the utilisation of the quadruple helix co-design methodology which they recommend for the efficient operation of living labs.
Clinical Innovation Living Lab
The Centre for Digital Healthcare Technology includes a Clinical Innovation Living Lab at the Belfast Heath and Social Care Trust, to create a facility that will accommodate user and clinician feedback and UX trials in a clinical setting.
Initially the Lab will be seed funded by a £6 million investment with funding from Belfast Region City Deals and will have a range of cutting-edge equipment including imaging, robotic surgery, prototyping and related general lab equipment. The lab will be in proximity to clinical staff to increase the engagement of clinicians and boost the clinical aspect of the ecosystem.
The team has operated a lab on a small scale in the trust for over 20 years and are very experienced in the development of small-scale trials, and the co-design of products with industry, clinicians and patients. This new investment will vastly increase the capacity and capability of the lab and open it up to a range of new partners.
Community Innovation Living Lab
The purpose-built CDHT hub will feature a 300m2 community living lab. The Community Innovation Living Lab will have a primary care and homebased care focus. Users of the lab will be able to collaborate with the CDHT team to develop new digital healthcare products and services utilising the experience and expertise of the living lab approach. The aim is to provide a one stop for innovators and provide help with:
- Sourcing funding for projects
- Access to expertise and facilities
- Trial design and ethical approval
- Access to user groups
- Accelerated networking and finding collaborators