Supporting the design of intercrop-based value chain as researchers: learnings from the adaptative management of a network of case studies across Europe - IntercropVALUES Practice Abstract

Summary

Living Labs managers report that they felt empowered to initiate organisational, institutional, technical (farm) and/or technological (process) changes.
Practical recommendations
When designing the project:
• Build an interdisciplinary team that combines agronomic knowledge (at different levels) with a social-science background and facilitation skills.
• Dedicate a project task to cover the time and financial resources required to manage and analyse such networks.
• Increase awareness of the whole project consortium about the value of such interdisciplinary and qualitative-facilitative approach.
During the project lifetime:
• Hold regular physical meetings (two minimum) to build trust between researchers and managers, maintain momentum and encourage cross-learning.
• Be transparent about the activity (e.g., workshop), purpose, and managers’ roles to ensure fluent co-creation