Public health innovation labs framework development: a design study of GGD West-Brabant Netherlands

Abstract Introduction Innovation Labs are spaces that encourage the creation, development and testing of novel ideas within organizations.While there are known frameworks for the organization of such labs in the private sector, current literature does not reflect a framework for developing a public health Innovation Lab (PHI-Lab) specifically.The aim of this study was to develop an evidence-based framework for a PHI-Lab together with the Dutch Municipal Health Service(GGD). Methods Our design thinking study consisted of 4 phases: Discovering, Defining, Creating and Evaluating.An initial framework was developed based on the public and public health sectors in the literature.To create and evaluate the framework,a document analysis of the GGD was performed,and co-creation and testing sessions were organized with 11 internal and 11 external stakeholders of the GGD. Results The final PHI-Lab framework is composed of: rationale, enablers and barriers, environment, approach, outcomes and values. Findings emphasized practical reasons for investing in a PHI-Lab, such as the shortage of health professionals.Stakeholders highlighted that proactive leadership and innovation culture are crucial enablers for the setup of the PHI-Lab.The right space and human resources (environment) and methods including design thinking and cross-collaboration (approach) were highlighted as important strategies for overcoming innovation challenges.Despite barriers such as bureaucracy and resource limitations, tailoring solutions to organizational objectives is key to the PHI-Lab’s success and sustainability, with added values of inclusiveness, adaptability and fun. Conclusions This study highlighted some practical additions to the initial framework that are specific to the public health setting, although mostly an adaptation from the public sector.Findings emphasize that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to develop a PHI-Lab.This framework has the intention of benefiting other public health organizations. Key messages • The framework has the intention of benefiting other public health organizations within established networks and partnerships. • Proactive leadership and innovation culture are crucial enablers for the organizational setup of the innovation lab.