In the second part of the series Andy Bleaden our Ecosystems Director talks a little more now about what actually then takes place in our Ecosystems. You can find the previous part of this article HERE
“Ecosystems are all different in some elements but are all bound together by that similar approach of leading with the need; breaking down silos; transforming health and social care and delivering economic growth.”
Typically an ecosystem will be around a set theme for instance Dementia and in the run up to the meeting the Ecosystem’s working group will have collected together speakers and an agenda that both shows the need in the local area. Speakers will be invited and the event will be published locally and also via ECHAlliance website.
“It is vital to recognise that these are free to attend events which leads to a lot of our members visiting different ecosystems across our network”
Typically the Ecosystem will be opened by the host of the venue or Ecosystem Coordinator with an introduction to the theme of the day which has been shared in advance using an online registration page.
The first session will then lead with the need around the chosen theme (for instance Living well with Dementia or Data sharing ) bringing in health and social care perspectives from professionals and most importantly citizens and patients or carers highlighting the need in the region around this theme. These help to set the challenge around the theme for different stakeholders
Andy says “ leading with the need helps to then set the challenge but most importantly sets up the ASK for the stakeholders involved on the day. They can then collaborate on this theme with a clear picture of what the need is”
Typically then best practice and good examples of succesful approaches from across the region can then be showcased and shared as well as examples from across the wider network of ECHAlliance international ecosystems, businesses or funded collaboration projects. This is where the benefit of being in an International Network is demonstrates as the region can then learn from others with similar challenges but successful innovation in other countries.
Very often in Ecosystems the gathering can form into smaller groups to take part in a collaboration workshop targeting the need highlighted earlier and looking to offer up opportunities to collaborate within the room; break down some silos and hear the voices of others who have not presented.
“It is here silos get broken down, connections take place and collaboration can begin.”
Very often a keynote speaker or leader in this area can at this point challenge and provoke on this area before the gathering potentially engages in a series of innovation pitches allowing regional and international innovators to pitch their innovation to the gathering again helping to increase connectivity and awareness as well as encourage adoption.
These sessions can help show to the challenge their solution is targeting, what their solution or service does but also what they need as innovators such as partnering, testing, funding or advice.
“We love to run these showcasing sessions and we want to hear from start ups and innovators – What need are you addressing, how does it work, and what do you need from us here today?”
This offers the other participants an opportunity to find out more about what is on the market in this field and also then to give the SME’s an opportunity to pitch their solutions to potential procurers or partners.
Typically many ecosystems will also hold a networking event with displays and demonstrations but most importantly opportunities for people to network, make connections and engage with other stakeholders.
“Ecosystems start with the need, identify best practice, foster collaboration by breaking down silos and lead to economic growth”
If you want to find out more about ecosystems and how to take part follow this link and learn more.
