A framework for mission-oriented innovation policy: Alternative pathways through the problem-solution space

Abstract

We aim for a better conceptualization of Mission-oriented Innovation Policy (MIP). Our starting point is an analytical decomposition of societal problems and innovative solutions based on the degrees of wickedness regarding three aspects: i) contestation, ii) complexity and iii) uncertainty. We argue that both problems and solutions can be diverging (contested, complex, uncertain) or converging (uncontested, well-defined, informed). Based on the resulting problem-solution topology, we suggest a process-oriented view on MIP and discuss three alternative pathways along which convergence between problems and solutions can be achieved to transform wicked problems into legitimate solutions. We illustrate the pathways with the examples of smoking bans, CCTV and wind energy. For policy makers, locating a societal challenge in this problem-solution space, and implementing policy strategies accordingly, is expected to accelerate both the legitimacy of a mission and the resulting solutions.