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Inception
Inclusive innovation is not a consideration, yet.
At this stage, the organisation is unaware of the concept of inclusive innovation and has not yet started its journey. There may be little awareness of the importance of inclusion in innovation, and no specific initiatives or practices are in place.
Lack of awareness and consideration for the needs of marginalised users. Unintentional harm or exclusion. Missed opportunities that could arise from diverse perspectives and serving historically underserved audiences. Little awareness of the importance of inclusion in innovation. No specific initiatives or practices related to inclusive innovation. Lack of diversity in the organisation's innovation teams. Minimal representation of marginalised groups in innovation discussions. 1
Intention
Intention of innovation is to create equitable solutions
Inclusive innovation efforts begin with the intention to create equitable solutions. The organisation acknowledges the need to incorporate diversity and inclusion into its innovation processes and address problems for marginalised groups, but has not yet taken significant, concrete steps to do so.
Internal shift in mindset and intent. Intent may attract users or staff to brand - but only if this is quickly followed up. Acknowledgment of the benefits and the need to incorporate diversity and inclusion into innovation. Shared desire to address issues of exclusion and oppression. Initial discussions or planning around inclusive innovation. Beginning to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive innovation. Some efforts to engage with external resources or experts in the field. Making commitments about future intent to innovate more inclusively. 2
Consumption
Diversified user base and organisational learning.
Innovation is consumed by diverse users, including those from marginalised groups. As the user base diversifies, the organisation starts to consume knowledge and information about inclusive innovation and diverse user needs. They may attend workshops, seminars, and training sessions to learn about best practices and principles related to inclusion in innovation.
A diversified user base can result in a broader market, potentially leading to increased revenue and growth. Increased consumption from marginalised users can increase access and representation. Deeper organisational understanding on diverse user needs and experiences leading to an inclusive innovation feedback loop. Knowledge on best practices related to inclusive inclusion. Increased insights can turn unknown challenges into known challenges. A diverse user base is starting to engage with the organisation's innovations. Attendance at workshops, seminars, or training sessions related to inclusive innovation. Basic data collection on user demographics and preferences. Initial efforts to engage with marginalised users for feedback. 3
Implementation
Delivery of specific initiatives.
Building on the knowledge gained, the organisation begins to implement isolated initiatives and inclusive practices, in specific areas. The focus is on achieving measurable impact and positive outcomes.
While the impact might not yet be widespread, some initiatives begin to show results. This stage sees the initial fruits of the organisation's inclusive innovation efforts. Specific initiatives related to inclusive innovation in place (e.g. accessibility features). Measurable impact from some inclusive innovation initiatives. Growing understanding of the connection between diversity, equity, and inclusion and innovation. Start of internal and external communication about inclusive innovation efforts. 4
Structure
Organisational structure evolves to prioritise inclusive innovation
The organisation establishes a dedicated structure to support and drive inclusive innovation across the organisation. This could involve the creation of specialised teams or steering groups, the appointment of inclusion champions, and the development of a comprehensive strategy for inclusive innovation.
Greater alignment with diversity, equity and inclusion goals. A more coordinated and strategic approach to inclusive innovation. Innovation has greater impact on historically underserved groups. Establishment of dedicated teams or roles focused on inclusive innovation. Governance structures in place to validate that innovation efforts are inclusive. Greater diversity in innovation teams. Inclusion of inclusive innovation goals in organisational strategy. Formalised inclusion champions or leaders. Comprehensive strategy for inclusive innovation across the organisation. 5
Process
Inclusive innovation practices are embedded, involving marginalised groups.
Inclusive innovation practices are integrated into the organisation's innovation processes. Inclusion becomes a systematic part of how the organisation approaches ideation, research, development, and launch of new products, services, or initiatives. This includes involving marginalised groups in the innovation process and systematically measuring results.
A systematic approach to addressing diversity and inclusion in innovation. Marginalised users feel included. Better, more equitable solutions are created. Impact and results are systematically measured. Inclusive innovation practices are systematically integrated into development processes. Regular engagement with marginalised groups throughout the innovation lifecycle. Clear metrics and KPIs related to inclusive innovation. Ongoing training and development opportunities for teams in inclusive innovation. 6
Holistic Integration
Deep-rooted inclusive innovation culture.
Holistic integration represents the pinnacle of an organisation's inclusive innovation journey. It signifies that inclusive innovation has transcended structural changes and initiatives to become an intrinsic part of the organization's DNA, values, and mission. At this stage, inclusive innovation isn't just a project, process or a department; it is woven into the very fabric of the organisation's culture. It guides behaviors, decisions, and actions across all levels of the organisation, making inclusivity a natural and reflexive part of every innovation endeavor.
Inclusive innovation is a defining characteristic of the organisation's identity and success. Consistently visible and far-reaching impact. Shared belief that inclusive innovation is vital to the success of the organisation. Inclusive innovation is embedded in the organisation's DNA and culture. Inclusivity is a natural part of how the organisation approaches all aspects of innovation. Inclusion guides behaviors, decisions, and actions at all levels. Inclusive innovation is not seen as a separate initiative but as a core practice. 
