The SubUrbanLab report “Boundary conditions for successful Urban Living Labs” presents the boundary conditions for successful Urban Living Lab implementation as well as methods that can be used in different stages of the development process. The report is targeted to municipalities, housing companies and researchers aiming to involve different stakeholders in different kinds of development projects in the urban context.
Before starting Urban Living Lab activities, it is essential to interview people from different backgrounds, observe the environment and familiarise oneself with earlier reports written about the area and its challenges to understand the whole context. Goals for the development project have to be defined based on the needs of different target groups. Residents and other stakeholders who should participate in the project must be identified and involved in defining the aims, and their roles in the Urban Living Lab must be clarified. A transparent decision making process has to be defined. Finally, the methods for the specific actions and the communication process have to be planned. Key success factors for Urban Living Labs are the early and continuous involvement of all affected people, clear goals and expectations, and acting instead of discussing. The methods must be adapted to the goals and participants. At its best, people can participate in the Urban Living Lab activities as a part of their other activities and see the effects of their participation shortly afterwards.