4 Stages of the Living Labs
Stage 1: Understanding People and Nature
In this first stage, we look at how people and the landscape are connected. We study the condition of the local area and its problems. We do this by talking to people, making maps of important places and links, and thinking about what is changing and why.
Stage 2: Talking and Planning Together
Next, we share what we learned and talk with the local community. Together, we make a list of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT). We hold interviews and workshops, organize events, and connect with people who know about policies and markets. We also learn by sharing ideas with other labs.
Stage 3: Trying New Ideas
In this stage, we test out new ideas. We try small projects or activities to see what works in real life. Researchers, local people, and decision-makers work together and learn from each other.
Stage 4: Looking Back and Sharing
Finally, we review what we did and what we learned. We tell the story of our work and suggest ideas that can help in other places too. We share results with both the local community and people at the national level.
