In this paper, Johannes Suitner and Astrid Krisch (Kellogg College - University of Oxford, Global Centre on Healthcare and Urbanisation) examine the Grätzlmarie in Vienna as an example of non-technological experiments in transformation. They show that actors' knowledge & reflexivity about context are key capacities for success.

Main takeaways: 

• Non-technological experiments are important for transformation: They address the unique local implications of global challenges and related social needs by testing alternative practices and paths for societal change.

• Such experiments face a transformative dilemma: They aim to change those structures in which they are simultaneusoy embedded. Only understanding and consciously operating with these contexts creates leeway for change.
   

Experiments must navigate 3 context dimensions:

1. unique structural conditions,
2. specific political-institutional frameworks, and
3. competing perceptions and aspirations associated with place.
    

The knowledge, reflexivity and flexibility to "navigate context" and consequently create impact are unevenly distributed. Experimentation thus becomes a question of power. Transformative governance therefore needs knowledge brokers who overview these contextual complexities, and facilitate experiments with contextual knowledge.

This paper, opens an external URL in a new window emerged from SIAMESE, opens an external URL in a new window, a research project funded by Klimafonds.
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