The social shaping of technology: Lessons for eco-innovators

Abstract

The following discussion paper provides an overview of ways that insights from the interdisciplinary field of STS (Science and Technology Studies or Science Technology and Society) might assist eco-innovators in the IT sector. Drawing very broadly from the social shaping of technology literatures we have identified 4 interlocking themes we believe that eco-innovators should keep in mind to help promote their success: (i) The importance of building sustainable networks of people, things and knowledge; (ii) The significant role that is played by developing new forms of knowledge and expertise facilitated by =knowledge brokers or =knowledge -entrepreneurs'; (iii) The important roles that can be played by users in re-shaping technology in practical settings; (iv)The importance of conceptually situating plans for optimisation and the ongoing evaluation of their effectiveness within particular technological paradigms or trajectories.