This second part of the strategy introduces a framework to structure thoughts and actions on the specific phase of experimenting . We use the living laboratory set up as a platform for this , to bring about and support the sustainable mobility solutions of tomorrow , with all the care and attention they need in order to set sail and navigate through the shallow waters of innovation . The developed three-folded A-B-C approach complements part one of the strategy , and serves as a guide for developing and designing different mobility experiments .
While the phases 1-4 of the first part of the strategy generate a list with potentially interesting experiments , the A-B-C of experimenting is meant to work now with one of those potential experiments at a time and design , implement , monitor , evaluate and strengthen it . Here is a brief outline what the three steps include .
The next three pages treat the A , B and C in turn and try thereby to make this ‘ A-B-C of experimenting ’ more tangible . While the left side of the page contains some general descriptions and tasks , which could be part of conducting the experiment , the right side adds up some concrete ideas , what this could mean in an example . The experiment chosen here is a basic setup of a car sharing system in Nordhavnen . It is not the most innovative idea we employ here as an example , but we believe that this mobility solution , which is not yet considered in the Nordhavnen package , has a big leverage effect , as it has been argued repeatedly to have a significant effect on raising awareness about own mobility patterns and to decrease car usage over time among its users .
? A !
Articulating expectations and adjusting visions
The first question that needs clearance is ; do our assumptions , that the experiment can contribute to a mobility package that all together is the sustainable future of mobility in Copenhagen , hold proof once expectations with other actors are leveled ? To answer this question , a dialogue about what the experiment can do in the bigger setting of the mobility system is purposive . Often there are many unspoken assumptions about this , which should be contrasted with different perspectives , thorough research and inspiration from other cases of the experiment . This step of articulating and leveling the expectations is crucial to prevent clashes in the run of the experiment . It can result in a decision if further effort is taken with the experiment , ‘ Go !’ or ‘ No Go ’.
Empowered by a ‘ Go !’, the process of adjusting visions can start . The municipality , plus eventually other actors that are already involved in the experiment , outline an initial description of how the concrete experiment might look like , what goals it should achieve and how it can be build further upon . Once this document is ready , a first vision is born . This document is needed for the next step of building a network around the experiment .
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These steps are build upon the theory of Strategic Niche Management , which offers guidance for navigating within the manifolded challenges of experimenting . Recommended literature , if interested in reading further on about this would be Raven et al . 2010 : “ Transitions and Strategic Niche Management : Towards a Competence Kit for Practitioners ”.