What does it mean to navigate power in the space between innovation teams and the public? Drawing on Public Policy Lab’s essay, “New View of Consent,” this conversation will explore how research and design practices can either reinforce or begin to rebalance unequal power dynamics.

In this discussion, PPL’s Chelsea Mauldin will be joined by Amira Boland of New America, Rachael Dietkus of Social Workers Who Design, and Terrance Smith of Johns Hopkins University. Together, they’ll reflect on the realities of working within complex systems—and what it takes to build more equitable, trust-centered relationships with the communities designers aim to serve. From informed consent to fair compensation, we’ll discuss strategies for greater transparency, accountability, and respect with members of the public.

This event is part of PP15, a series celebrating the Public Policy Lab’s 15th anniversary. You can find past blog posts and virtual events on our website.

Resources discussed in the webinar:

• PPL 15: New View of Consent, Public Policy Lab
• Service Design or Human Subjects Research?, Maya Uppaluru and Dana Chisnell
• Evaluation Resources, Office of Evaluation Sciences
• The Relationship is the Project, Jade Lillie and Kate Larsen with Cara Kirkwood and Jax Brown
• The Essential Force Needed to Drive Impactful Public Innovation, Terrance Smith