From innovative idea to deliverable prototype: the Ways to Wellness approach
Getting from an innovative idea to a deliverable prototype can be a nuanced process that involves many factors. Our Head of Development Simon Bromhead, explains the Ways to Wellness approach to making it happen.
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People from various professions and sectors approach us about ideas they have that could transform people’s experience of healthcare, to see if we can help.
The initial meeting to discuss the idea is a crucial starting point, usually focused on gathering information so we can understand the gap that exists, as well as who is affected by it, how, and what might help.
There are a number of questions we need to consider at this stage, not least ensuring we have the right people in the room to make the discussion as rich as it can be.
For example, how might the wider health system benefit if the results of the prototype demonstrate success? How can we best measure this impact, and what potential does the project have to scale up if early findings are positive?
A step back to take things forward
Our strategy is an important guide to us at this stage too. Before beginning to scope a new prototype we consider its fit with our overall vision and mission, and whether Ways to Wellness is best placed to prove the concept.
The next stage of development is unique to each project, depending on what may be needed, but our role can include:
Structuring the project. We will usually think about the outputs and outcomes we are aiming for, what we are going to measure and how we are going to collect the data so it is robust. We use a range of approaches and models to support this. For example, a logic model can be used to ensure we can express the need, and demonstrate that our solution fully fits the outcomes we want to achieve.
Securing funding. Funding is needed to support the delivery of the concept or model we are testing, but its role isn’t only practical. It can also demonstrate that there is appetite within the system to ‘test and learn’ around the idea in question. Supporting one of our prototypes shows that a funder shares the ambition, and recognises the need.
Setting up project governance. For most of our projects we put a business case to our Board of Trustees for their feedback, before setting up a project steering group by engaging a range of experts from across different sectors. They are a crucial part of project governance and act as a guiding hand throughout all stages of a prototype.
There can be a lot to navigate when it comes to developing a project, but helping people who have great ideas but are unsure what to do next is a very rewarding part of the job. It’s also inspiring when you see the difference an innovative prototype makes, and when that impact is recognised by, and implemented within the wider healthcare system.
Find out more about our current projects on our website and get in touch at info@waystowellness.org.uk if you have an idea you think we could help you bring to life.
