MSF SIU Innovation Cases
What is an SIU Innovation Case? One of our core focus areas at the MSF SIU is identifying challenges and developing solutions that can be brought into MSF field operations and the broader humanitarian space. We have developed a three-step design thinking process, highlighted below. This process has already been successfully applied to various challenges faced by MSF in the field. The cases highlighted in each section show roughly where they currently are in our three-tiered approach. However, innovation is rarely this clear-cut in real life.
If you are a part of MSF and are interested in accelerating innovation, make sure to check out our Innovation Toolkit below.
Our Innovation Process
Our innovation process is split into three overarching stages: initiation, development and implementation.
Through the nine sub-stages, our process allows for solutions that both suitable for their context and users. Through repeated re-iteration, the product moves away from solutions that are generalised and towards context-specific technology.
INITIATION STAGE CASES
The following are some of the most recent additions to the SIU Case Portfolio. These are Cases that have been brough forward by MSF Operational Centers and field staff who have identified a true need in MSF activities. At this initial stage, the SIU works with the designated Case Leader to truly understand the challenge and set robust objectives to guide the case moving forward.
DEVELOPMENT STAGE CASES
The second stage in the SIU human-centred innovation process includes generating and screening a wide range of innovative solution proposals, making prototypes of the most promising concepts, and testing prototype solutions and approaches in controlled scenarios.
IMPLEMENTATION STAGE CASES
The Cases featured here are those who have so far reached the final stage of the SIU process. Testing and refinement of prototypes in a field environment, planning and preparing for scaled-up production, and disseminating products and practices within MSF and beyond.
