Preparedness for Innovation in Times of Crisis: Lessons From the Initial COVID-19 Pandemic Response

Abstract

In this paper, we explore preparedness strategies for the initial response to crisis-driven innovation, in the context of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Using insights from semi-structured interviews with public health strategists, we apply analytic induction to investigate preparedness to innovate, and the main forms of crisis-driven innovation applied in the initial COVID-19 response. We thematically analyze measures of preparedness for the initial COVID-19 response and propose a framing aimed at boosting readiness for crisis-driven innovation. Our study finds themes on COVID-19 preparedness strategies involving combat-inspired public policies from assessed security, cyclic-oriented public projections of actionable safeguards, and continuity-driven public provisions for anticipated situations. The study also captures themes on crisis response as crisis-driven innovation in relation to digitalized, integrated, and tailored public services, initiatives, and systems. Our paper concludes with discussions on the implications of innovation intelligence for crisis preparedness, “ripple-inspired inside-out” view of crisis-driven innovation, “response as innovation” framings, and suggestions for further studies.

On the Problem of Social Innovation in the Lithuanian Military

“…Additionally, many practical ideas were manifested in various forms. Rapid advancements in telemedicine ensured the continuity of health-care services while minimising the risk of virus transmission (Durugbo et al, 2022;Omboni et al, 2022;Sharma et al, 2022). Contact tracing apps emerged as technological tools to monitor and curb the spread of the virus, showing the potential of digital solutions in public health emergencies (Sharifi et al, 2021).…”

“…Covid-19 catalysed social innovation by necessitating adaptability and resilience (Santos et al, 2023). The crisis underscored the importance of fostering collaborative, flexible, and sustainable solutions (Durugbo et al, 2022;Sharifi et al, 2021). These examples of Covid-19 crisis management show the potential of social innovation, which can be applied in various other struggling sectors.…”