Co-creation of new knowledge: Good fortune or good management?

Abstract

Plain english summary Organisations and researchers need to collaborate to produce new knowledge of health interventions. The literature identifies that there is a substantial evidence gap between producing knowledge and improving health outcomes. Here we reflect, via a case study methodology, on ways to co-create new knowledge by following a four-step collaborative process. The case study reviews the evaluation of an Australian-based psychoeducational program for people who attempt suicide by analysing multiple qualitative data sources to explore the perspectives of researchers and stakeholders. We discovered the need for a shared language of co-creation that focuses on experiences of collaboration while seeking out new value-creation opportunities and dismantling barriers. We learnt that implementing co-creation requires trust and good fortune within collaborative relationships alongside good management. Using the alternative collaboration framework of best practice for public health interventions in third sector organisations may eliminate gaps between research evidence and translation into practice, assisting health providers, clients, policymakers, universities, and funders.

Keywords

• Co-ideation
• Co-design
• Co-implementation
• Co-evaluation
• Multisectoral
• Collaboration