Challenges in working in remote places: measuring social impact

The SMOTIES project is part of a broader debate that seeks to challenge current trends through academic research and practice to understand how design can improve social innovation. Design for social innovation is a field of investigation that is constantly evolving, creating knowledge that emerges in the dialogue between reflective practitioners and researchers who aim to define the processes, methods, and tools needed for social change, and meas- ure the social change achieved. In this chapter, the design concept for social innovation will be linked to impact and the measurement of social change. The introduction explores a broader understanding of the topic, underlining the gaps in defining specific impact assessment methodologies in the design field. These gaps have been addressed in the SMOTIES project through co-design sessions with partners and residents involved in developing creative works in small and remote places in Europe. This chapter will examine the work done throughout the project, while presenting new possibilities for further reflection.