> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mars-solutions-lab.gitbook.io/living-guide-to-social-innovation-labs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mars-solutions-lab.gitbook.io/living-guide-to-social-innovation-labs/doing/co-creation.md).

# Co-Creation

Moving the needle on a complex problem requires an understanding of the great potential of convening people, using effective processes and methodologies. Working with people, and the trust and action of these people, is a key part of tackling a complex problem. In fact, it would be virtually impossible to do it without them.

Co-creation (that is, creating something with others towards a mutually valued outcome) can happen across lab activities including to: 

### **Co-create new understanding, new challenge framing, new shared visions**

* This helps us to understand how and why the system behaves the way it does
* It can help to define Collective Impact (who share a common agenda for change) 

{% content-ref url="/pages/-Lg4DtYbHvcts-moJRe9" %}
[Collective Impact](/living-guide-to-social-innovation-labs/doing/co-creation/collective-impact.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

* For example, lab participants (with often widely varying or even opposing agendas) can decide on a convening question that outlines a future state that everyone can subscribe to, such as that of the [Energy Futures Lab](https://energyfutureslab.com/steve-williams-visualizing-the-energy-system/): *How can Alberta’s leadership position in today’s energy system serve as a platform for transitioning to the energy system the future needs?*

### **Co-create new solutions**

* This includes ideation, design, prototyping, and testing new solutions
* Here, we can level-up solutions from basic concepts to first versions, to functional versions, and [minimally-viable prototypes](https://www.agilealliance.org/glossary/mvp/#q=~\(infinite~false~filters~\(tags~\(~'mvp\)\)~searchTerm~'~sort~false~sortDirection~'asc~page~1\))
* For example, [RECOVER in Edmonton created a number of prototypes](https://www.urbanwellnessedmonton.com/prototypes-1) to improve urban wellness in the city

### **Co-create change at scale**

* Here, we understand the market and systems that can influence the growth and change of the solutions
* We can also develop and test business models and a growth strategy for what we are creating