A human-centric co-creation platform for solving wicked social challenges

This article introduces DiakHub, a co-creation platform developed on a quadruple helix framework. DiakHub’s innovation activities aim at leading to more functional human-centred service systems and service processes. Human-centric solutions are sought to address problems across governance and administrative silos and boundaries, particularly targeted at the most vulnerable joint service users with complex needs and multiple service agency use. As a University of Applied Sciences, Diak has a unique profile in the Finnish education sector. Its RDI activities focus on improving the wellbeing of those in the most vulnerable positions through co-creating societal innovations, services, and capacity building. DiakHub activity can be verified through co-creation RDI activities and public service innovations. The role of students is central; while engaged in DiakHub activities, they become co-designers and experts, participating in the teaching and RDI activities they are exposed to during their studies.