Conclusion: Co-creating Inclusive Digital Futures

Juliane Jarke

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-52873-7_9

Abstract

AbstractThe first and positive conclusion—relating to the governing of co-creation and the sharing of control—is that co-creation is indeed an appropriate method to develop digital public information services that meet the needs of older users and achieve an output that is better than existing, comparable services. The second conclusion—relating to the sharing of expertise and knowledge—is that the co-creation of digital services works well with older adults, including those with little or no digital literacy skills. However, the performance and achievements of co-creation processes seem highly contingent and dependent on several factors. The third conclusion—relating to enabling change—is that not every digital public service is equally suited for co-creation. A lasting social as well as individual change can only be implemented if the resulting service does indeed respond to the needs of local stakeholders. Co-creation may become a way to improve the lack of user-centricity and user experience of digital public information services. However, there is no guarantee for its success. It is a complex multi-task and multi-stakeholder process, more demanding than traditional citizen participation. Due to the openness and complexity inherent to any co-creation process, providing strict guidelines and recommendations is not possible. However, the learning points identified in this book provide evidence on ways to co-create better, more user-centric public services with and for older adults.

Highlights

Co-creating Inclusive Digital Futures on the city information portal and which are maintained by local partners
In Zaragoza, the collaborative maps are integrated into the existing city information service infrastructure
Co-creating Inclusive Digital Futures users are generally understood as either advisors or representatives

Summary

Conclusion

Co-creating Inclusive Digital Futures creating a service makes this service more appealing for the target group of older adults. A multi-channel approach (e.g. providing information online and in print) is necessary for a transitional period Such printed material may raise interest in the digital counterpart. As a co-creation project progresses, the target audience becomes more and more refined and may lead to the exclusion of those citizens who are not represented in the co-creation process. This is based in a representational fit: Do those people who participate in a co-creation project represent the target audience adequately? A fourth challenge is a resource fit and relates to the abilities of those

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