Short abstract:

Exploring frugal innovation cases, we examine the creation of social ‘good’ via frugal digital technologies which, we argue, need to be contextually responsive, relevant and appropriate, with an adequate fit with the local circumstances and considering not only accessibility but also practical use.

Long abstract:

Frugal Innovation (FI) aims to provide affordable, simple, and accessible solutions in resource-constrained contexts by focusing on essential functions and minimizing resource usage. Digital technology solutions are frequently related with FI as they can help in overcoming resource constraints to enable access to basic products or services such as energy, healthcare and/or education for poor and marginalized communities.

Akin to the debate on ICT4D, the incorporation of digital technology in FI requires an understanding of the complex and socio-cultural dynamics within vulnerable contexts. Critical issues include power imbalances, the digital divide, and the potential for inadvertently raising exclusion or widening inequalities. Recognizing these challenges, our proposal turns attention to how digital technology might be used in FI to promote social good.

We provide examples from cases that are part of our ongoing research as an interdisciplinary team of scholars and members of the Latin American Frugal Innovation Network (RELIF). We examine the cases from two angles. First, we analyze digital FIs that provide formerly un(der)served users with access to products and services. Second, and less covered in existing literature, we explore the use of frugal digital technology for improving internal organizational processes in social enterprises and mission-driven nonprofit organizations.

We argue that to bring us closer to the creation of social ‘good’ frugal digital technology solutions need to be contextually responsive, relevant and appropriate. They shall be designed and implemented for an adequate fit with the local circumstances and considering not only accessibility but also practical use.