Does the project demonstrate long term thinking and a focus on lasting impact, rather than quick fixes?

In an era of fast-paced solutions and quick fixes, the slow approach emphasises thoughtfulness and long-term sustainability. Ideas should reflect a deliberate, patient process of design, focusing on creating lasting impact. Quick solutions often neglect the root causes of problems, offering only temporary relief rather than transformative change. A slow approach ensures that solutions are thought through, designed for the long haul, and resilient to changing circumstances. Such innovations are not rushed but carefully crafted with awareness of the complexities involved, ensuring they serve future generations as much as they serve the present.

Is the solution easy to understand, simple to implement and tailored for a local context?

The principle of "Small and Simple" centers on practicality and accessibility. Projects should be focused on local contexts and tailor solutions to specific community challenges, ensuring they are feasible within the existing socio-economic environment. Simple designs do not mean lack of sophistication; rather, they embody clarity, ease of implementation and replicability or scalability. Such solutions allow for gradual growth and avoid overwhelming complications that may hinder adoption. The simplicity of the design is also key to ensuring that the solution is scalable or replicable while preserving its core values and essence.

Does the design show a balance between creativity and practicality?                              

A harmonious design strikes a balance between functionality, creativity and sustainability. It ensures that the innovation is not only functional but also aesthetically, culturally and socially thoughtful. The most successful projects don’t just address practical needs—they also inspire, engage and reflect the values of the communities they serve. This balance is achieved when solutions integrate ecological, social, and technological aspects in ways that complement and support each other, rather than compete. Harmony ensures that every part of the project, flows naturally and aligns with the needs and values of both human and ecological systems.

Can the idea be replicated in similar communities without losing its effectiveness?

A replicable solution is one that can be effectively adapted and applied in different but similar contexts without losing its core value. Replicability ensures that an idea, method, or process can inspire and empower others beyond its original setting while remaining relevant to diverse communities, geographies and cultures.

A highly replicable innovation does not rely on scarce or inaccessible resources. Instead, it is designed with flexibility, making it easy for others to adapt to the uniqueness of their own context, modify and implement in their own settings. This adaptability allows communities to take ownership of the idea and shape it according to their local conditions.

Can the idea be expanded to a broader scale without losing its effectiveness?           

Scalability refers to a project’s potential to grow beyond its original scope while maintaining its effectiveness and integrity. A scalable solution is designed in a way that allows it to expand—whether by reaching a larger number of people, covering a wider geographical area, or deepening its impact within a system.

Scalable projects often have mechanisms that support their growth, such as the ability to integrate with existing systems, attract resources, or generate momentum through networks and collaborations. However, true scalability is not just about growth—it is about growing in a way that remains sustainable, ethical and relevant to the communities it serves.

Does the project show potential for a positive and lasting impact on the community or ecosystem it addresses?

The strength of an innovation lies in the tangible difference it can make. Impact potential refers to the measurable benefits an innovation brings to the community, environment, or system it aims to improve. A strong project demonstrates how it contributes to positive change and provides indicators to assess its success over time.

Impact potential includes both qualitative and quantitative measures. Some solutions may bring social or ecological improvements, while others might show clear numerical benefits, such as reducing waste, increasing food security, or improving livelihoods. A well-defined innovation has clarity on how its impact can be measured and sustained.

Does the solution benefit all stakeholders equitably, especially vulnerable groups ?                                                                                      

Solutions must prioritise fairness, justice and equity, not just for human beings but for all forms of life. An equitable project addresses disparities and ensures that benefits are shared fairly, promoting access to resources and opportunities. This includes considering marginalized communities, ensuring that the voices of underrepresented groups are heard, and protecting the rights of more than human life as well. Equity means ensuring that no one is left behind and that the solution contributes to a just and inclusive society, while respecting and nurturing the broader biosphere.

Is the project feasible in terms of resources, time, and implementation capacity?                                                               

A feasible innovation is one that can be realistically implemented given the available resources, time and skills. While ambitious ideas are valuable, their practical execution is equally important. Feasibility ensures that a solution is not just theoretical but can be applied effectively in real-world conditions.

A well-designed feasible solution considers financial, technical, and social constraints while making the best use of existing resources. It acknowledges potential challenges and has a clear plan to overcome them. Feasibility also means that the innovation can be tested or piloted before scaling up or being replicated.