Exploring the assessment of territorial potential for social innovation: an indicator system applied to a region in Ecuador

Abstract One of the key elements in territorial dynamics processes is Social Innovation since we can improve our regional sustainable systems from the relationship and participation among territorial agents. However, this concept is still poorly explored and does not currently have a commonly-agreed definition and a complete assessment system, based on which strategies for improvement might be designed to guarantee regional sustainability. As a result, it has limited capacity for contributing to development. In accordance with the above, the main aim of this article is to explore the concept of Social Innovation and to asses it, designing a system of indicators capable of measuring territorial potential for social innovation, applicable to any region and adapting to its specificities and necessities. This work also aims to use a case study application, using a Ecuadorian region, to design an indicator assessment tool for social innovation, which integrates the main Social Innovation dimensions. This article makes contribution to the international debate on Social Innovation since it offers real input, potentially encouraging social change and the improvement of society’s wellbeing.


Introduction and theoretical framework: social innovation and its contribution to territorial development
Social innovation (SI) is not an end in itself.Rather, it is a tool or process for generating or revitalizing development by using different initiatives and practices to address the challenges posed by the immediate environment, respond to stakeholders' demands and tackle social issues.Its role in this regard is widely recognized by international organizations (BEPA, 2011;CEPAL & Kellogg, 2017;ECLAC., 2022;European Commission, 2017).
SI plays a role in stimulating sustainable territorial development.Therefore, despite a lack of consensus as to its definition in the literature, it is important to analyze its social, economic, institutional, environmental and cultural components, among others, in order to enable this type of development.
Our first objective in this study is to conceptualize SI and its potential contribution to territorial development from an integral perspective.After setting out the conceptual framework and analyzing the indicator systems applied in the current literature, this article reveals the absence of a system suitable for analyzing SI from the territorial perspective proposed here.
Based on this systematization of the concept of SI, the second objective of this study is to design a comprehensive system of indicators which is able to measure the territorial potential for SI present in a particular place, taking its unique characteristics into consideration.
Since the 1980s, research and thematic development in the field of SI has gained momentum with the emergence of numerous suggested definitions (Avelino et al., 2019;Edwards-Schachter, 2021;Jenson & Nagels, 2022;Schubert, 2021) and studies by public and private organizations (Center for Research on Social Innovations, University of Quebec at Montreal, Canada; National Endowment for Science, Technology and Arts-NESTA-United Kingdom; Seventh Framework Program of the European Union, 2014-2017; University of Twente-Netherlands; University of Minho-Portugal; University of Oklahoma in the United States; University of Wollongong School of Economics, Australia; and the University of C ordoba in Spain, among others).
However, consensus has yet to emerge on the definition of SI, its cause-effect relationships and the problems it addresses, as well as the policies adopted to promote it, among other topics (Caroli et al., 2018;Eichler & Schwarz, 2019;Moulaert & Mehmood, 2020;Oeij et al., 2019).
This article first seeks to define SI as a component of integral development (comprising social, environmental, economic and institutional development).It then aims to apply the concept to a specific regional context, proposing a system of indicators capable of quantifying these elements in a systematic manner.
To do this, we reviewed SI measurement tools, drawing on a set of multiple indicators that allow social innovation case studies and socially innovative regions or countries to be examined, as well as the environments and factors that favor their creation.
Measuring a multidimensional phenomenon such as social innovation is a complex task that is frequently hindered by challenges relating to the availability of data, adaptation to different regional contexts and adjustment to the research subject (Anheier et al., 2015).The state of the art of research on SI includes numerous visible and prominent methodologies, where various authors and international organizations propose indicators (Dancause & Longtin, 2014;ECLAC., 2022;Leadbeater, 2010), indicator systems (Alkire & Deneulin, 2009;Heiskala, 2015;Klein & Tremblay, 2013) and indices (CIVICUS, 2019;EIU, 2016;FMK-UDD, 2014) that allow this phenomenon to be measured, depending on their fields of application and research objectives.
However, despite identifying and analyzing the most consensual and useful instruments, especially the systems of indicators or indices at the territorial level, it can be highlighted that none allows SI to be measured in such a way that the line of territorial capacities for SI can be addressed.This research aims to contribute to this new approach.
An analysis of different proposals for social innovation indicators and existing measurement methods at the micro, meso and macro level reveals some important contributions made in this area, but further empirical research is needed to feed the theoretical framework with new knowledge and overcome the numerous measurement challenges present (Bund et al., 2015;Dancause & Longtin, 2014;Van Wijk et al., 2019).Although the most widely accepted, useful instruments have been identified and analyzed (especially indicator systems and meso-level indicators), it is worth noting that none of them allow SI to be measured in such a way as to satisfactorily fulfill the objectives of this study, which focuses on regional potential for stimulating SI.
In view of the potential and shortcomings of the SI measuring tools available and based on the conceptualization of social innovation underpinning this study, we have developed a new indicator system in line with the research objectives, which may be applied to any region, with particular relevance in less developed areas.The results were validated by a pilot experiment carried out in Planning Area 7 in Ecuador, a disadvantaged region in Latin America.

Methodology
In order to address the first objective of the study, SI and territorial potential were defined through a systematic review of the existing literature and a bibliometric analysis of the field.Given the lack of an agreed definition, common elements present in the various studies were identified.In terms of our contribution to the conceptual literature, this study proposes a new definition of SI and its regional potential from a territorial perspective.In this way, we can progress towards an understanding of SI as a transversal discipline with a far-reaching regional impact.
To address the second objective, a comprehensive indicator system was created to reflect the two main paradigms present in SI (technocratic and democratic), taking the interrelated dimensions of the model into consideration: the economic, institutional, social and, above all, environmental dimensions.In this way, society is given a prominent role in stimulating SI.
The indicator system proposed here is designed to evaluate territorial potential for social innovation (TP_SI) and is based on three main conditions.While some of these may be present in other studies, they have not been considered jointly within a single measurement system: a comprehensive approach addressing social, economic and institutional aspects; analysis at the aggregate, territorial level; and a focus on framework conditions and results.These form the basis of the proposed measurement model, which has been developed as a strategic way of closing social and territorial gaps and generating fairer, more equitable development.
The model's approach requires the concept of SI to be operationalized.In other words, once it has been defined, the abstract concept must be converted into observable indicators or metrics that allow the concept of territorial potential for SI to be applied in practice.This process involves identifying the elements to be measured, selecting and integrating indicators and sub-indicators, components and dimensions, and finally, presenting them in a logical order.
In line with Alkire and Deneulin (2009), identification of the dimensions and components in the model is based on a combination of three methods: literature review, official data and expert opinion, with unstructured interviews providing feedback.
The logical structuring of the indicators is dependent upon the conceptual framework on which they are based.In this regard, Innobasque (2013) identify five nonexclusive classification criteria, which are present in many of the available indicator systems in various forms: innovation value chain; distinction between internal and external factors; institutional vision of the innovation system; functional vision of the innovation system, and finally, input-output or framework-performance ordering using process logic, differentiating between inputs or framework conditions and results or innovation performance.The latter was used in this study and is the most commonly employed structuring approach.The effects or impact (outcome) were added to these indicators (Innobasque, 2013).
The methods chosen to construct the model were based on quality sources and appropriate IT tools at each stage of the research.The first stage was to systematize knowledge of the instruments and methods used to measure social innovation.VOSviewer software was used to statistically process the relevant content and represent it on two-dimensional maps for visualization, exploration and interpretation, facilitating understanding and assimilation of the information generated.
Following this, the data relevant to the study were compiled using official regional statistics, which were validated using SPSS 24.0 software.The empirical indicators and sub-indicators related to the indicators for the TP_SI model were statistically validated via a multivariate analysis to quantify the confidence level of a measurement scale for the unobservable magnitude (indicator), constructed using the n variables observed (sub-indicators) and applying Cronbach's Alpha.
For the validation of the indicator model proposal built from the approaches and theoretical developments available to date, a collaboration of 16 experts from 5 Ibero-American countries -Chile, Spain, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru-has been requested.The experts are teacher-researchers in the field of socio-economic development and innovation with an outstanding track record in this area, embodied in publications in impact magazines.The validation was carried out for two months, through an online questionnaire (Appendix A), whose objective was to verify the degree of relevance of the components and indicators for the measurement of the five dimensions of the model of Territorial Potential for Social Innovation.The observations and feedback from the experts through the comments have allowed the model to be validated obtatining its latest version.
Finally, once the set of indicators had been structured logically, the system was used to conduct a situational analysis of the region.Real-life application and analysis using Tableau Public software was an important test of the model and its structure, confirming its practical relevance in the study of social innovation (Table 1).
As a result of this process, we propose a new indicator system of a global nature, which can be applied to any region and adapted to reflect its unique characteristics.Planning Area 7 in Ecuador was chosen for a pilot test to validate the system.
Ecuador, a Latin American country with a population of 17,023,000 and a 2018 Multidimensional Poverty Index value of 36.6% (INEC, 2019(INEC, , 2020)), lags significantly behind other countries in the region with respect to key development indicators such as 'economic performance' and 'innovation' (WEF, 2019(WEF, , 2020)).Despite making some progress, it continues to face significant challenges, which are reflected in the gaps, disparities and imbalances that are commonly observed in the country (ECLAC., 2022;INEC, 2019).
Change in Ecuador is therefore imperative and there is a pressing need for improvement of the factors that influence its capacity for innovation, which is key to the country's development.Ecuador urgently requires better use of its territorial resources, greater economic specialization, transformation of the productive matrix and endogenous development (Planifica Ecuador, 2020).All regions must be stimulated, with a particular focus on the most at-risk areas.In this respect, 89 of the country's 221 cantons have been designated as vulnerable (Senplades, 2011), many of which may be described as economically depressed.In this context, Planning Area 7 stands out in particular, with 70% of its cantons designated as depressed despite its strategic location for international trade in close proximity to Peru.The high concentration of vulnerable and depressed cantons in Planning Area 7 reflects the significant economic and social problems present in the region.It is here that mechanisms to support social innovation initiatives must be implemented and strengthened, interaction among stakeholders stimulated and a more efficient use of resources applied.
On the basis of these characteristics, the region was chosen for a pilot experiment to validate the new indicator system proposed in this article, especially suited to disadvantaged regions.
This article thus seeks to contribute to social innovation processes by applying this new measurement system to decision-making and development strategies in Planning Area 7.

Definition of social innovation and territorial potential
Social innovations are closely related to the socioeconomic context in which they are applied and are determined by or even dependent upon a concrete reality, which they seek to improve and/or transform (Moulaert & Mehmood, 2020).Social innovation thus comprises multiple, varied practices and initiatives in pursuit of different socioeconomic objectives with diverse territorial stakeholders (Howaldt et al., 2018).
This explains the current abundance of definitions, with each study drawing on and explaining its use of the concept according to the approach, analysis and nature of the application used (Jenson & Nagels, 2022).
In order to navigate this complex, diffuse and fragmented field, we must systematically identify the most common characteristics and differentiating elements of social innovation.It is also relevant to highlight the dual nature of SI, which relates to both 'innovation' and 'society'.As an 'innovation', SI is characterized by novelty, efficiency, economic sustainability, scalability and replicability (Krlev et al., 2014).The 'social' component refers largely to the expected impact of an innovation, understood as the social change brought about in the place where it is applied.This may be interpreted as meeting the needs of vulnerable populations and sectors of society (Krlev et al., 2014;Leadbeater, 2010, Mulgan, 2012); solving problems (Donaldson & Mitton, 2022;Schubert, 2021;Tiwari & Herstatt, 2022); or bringing about change in relationships and social transformation (Heiskala, 2015;Jenson & Nagels, 2022;Klein & Tremblay, 2013;McGowan et al., 2021;Moulaert & Mehmood, 2020;Nicholls et al., 2015).
Based on a review of the literature on SI and its measurement, this study proposes its own definition of SI, which echoes its role as a catalyst for regional development: social innovation is a process driven by territorial stakeholders in a collective search for novel solutions to demands, needs and opportunities with a view to improving quality of life for vulnerable groups and society as a whole and working towards social transformation and integral territorial development.
In our definition, the SI process is conceptualized as a set of multiple, simultaneous, collective actions taking place in a context of uncertainty, where territorial stakeholders operate at the intersection between three areas of activity-social, economic and institutional.This contributes to short and medium-term social transformation, with territorial development as the ultimate long-term objective.
The first objective of this study has therefore been addressed: we have set out a integral conceptual framework for SI that considers its regional impact.
It is relevant to note that the SI process gives rise to new social relationships in different areas, which may be commercial or territorial in scope, creating opportunities for active citizen participation to address problems and generate substantial change to transform society (Jessop et al., 2013;Martin et al., 2017;Teasdale et al., 2021).New roles emerge, enhancing society's capacity to resolve problems and promoting more efficient use of assets and resources (Edwards-Schachter, 2021; Martin et al., 2017).There is an emphasis on civic engagement and community involvement for collective impact, especially in post-pandemic times (Anheier et al., 2015;Donaldson & Mitton, 2022;Jaeger-Erben et al., 2015;Jessop et al., 2013).The density of the networks of alliances between territorial stakeholders that operate at different levels (local and regional), both vertically (local stakeholders and government) and horizontally (intersectoral), depends on the structure of the social fabric.Development processes thus take on a more social character, with broad participation from diverse organizations (Cloutier, 2003;Nicholls et al., 2015).
In this context, 'popular' or 'frugal' social innovation plays an important role.This type of innovation, implemented in conditions where materials and financial resources are scarce, focuses on creating inexpensive yet good quality solutions and may have a significant social impact on more sustainable, inclusive development (Fraunhofer ISI, 2017;Tiwari & Herstatt, 2022).It is particularly applicable to developing countries with scarce resources and low incomes where relevant public policies are needed to stimulate this kind of development in terms of both commercial activities and territorial scope.
On the one hand, therefore, the role of SI in territorial development is central in influencing spatial dynamics.On the other hand, territorial specificities may in turn determine the possibilities for generating and stimulating SI, which is dependent upon the quality of the context in which it emerges and develops.
In order to stimulate SI, the region must be profiled in terms of its territorial potential, which is underpinned by social, economic and institutional conditions and the ability of territorial stakeholders to mobilize, strengthen, expand and capitalize on improvements to existing conditions.In the short and medium term, this creates socially innovative environments that will drive integral territorial development.
Whereas SI is a process, territorial potential for social innovation (TP_SI) is a dynamic set of framework conditions.
Here, territorial development is approached as a integral, sustainable process.In order to fulfill its key role in promoting this type of development, SI requires a set of framework conditions based on territorial potential for social innovation that takes social, economic, institutional and environmental aspects into consideration.

Proposal for a new indicator system
The indicator system for measuring territorial potential for SI proposed here is one of the outcomes of the research conducted for this study and is based on five dimensions.The first three -Organized and Participatory Society (OP_S), Democratic and Pluralist Economy (DP_E) and Institutionalization of Social Innovation (I_SI)identify the conditions and resources available for SI in a region.The fourth dimension -Socially Innovative Environments (SI_E)-reflects how effective the use of the existing conditions has been in generating SI.The fifth dimension -Integral Territorial Development-refers to the context in which the effects of SI should be seen in the long term.
One of the innovative contributions of the model is that it adopts a territorial approach.In other words, SI is measured and studied in terms of the two main perspectives currently used to study the phenomenon (commercial and territorial).
It is therefore suggested that, at the territorial level, SI should be measured with a focus on the interlinkages between social, institutional and economic factors in order to develop a integral approach to the interaction between SI and territory.
This study uses framework-performance logic to structure the different metricsdimensions, components, indicators and sub-indicators -within the system.The framework conditions encompass three dimensions: social, economic and institutional.Meanwhile, the results (performance) dimension is represented by Socially Innovative Environments and the impact (outcome) dimension is represented by Integral Territorial Development.
Another innovative aspect of the proposed system is that it focuses on Socially Innovative Environments, measured in terms of the territorial revitalization and social and territorial cohesion resulting from existing social, economic and institutional conditions present in the region.Within this framework, the three basic dimensions determine the region's capacity for developing innovative social dynamics.The study works with a set of indicators that enable the degree of progress in creating socially innovative environments to be detected, providing the most realistic overview possible of the current situation in each region and the potential relationship between social, economic, environmental and other conditions in long-term Integral Territorial Development (outcome).
The Territorial Potential for Social Innovation Indicator System (TP_SI) proposes a metric for monitoring and evaluating the development of SI in regional environments by measuring relevant aspects.As such, the TP_SI model can be used for two different purposes: comparing different regions and assessing a region's development over time.
The System of Indicators proposed for the model for measuring the territorial potential for Social Innovation, by its nature, includes quantitative and qualitative indicators, given the nature of the phenomenon of social innovation and its manifestations at the territorial level.Quantitative indicators are compiled from official statistical sources; Qualitative indicators are obtained through the application of perception surveys (Appendix B).
The TP_SI indicator system is linked, determined and sometimes even conditioned by the official data sources containing the information required in order to apply the system.Following an exhaustive review of the scientific literature, the model was designed by identifying different data collection instruments at the sub-national level, developed by the institutions responsible for their respective regional statistical systems.This approach was possible due to the generic nature of the model, which is applicable to different regions.
The proposed TP_SI Indicator System was submitted for validation by international experts from five countries (Chile, Spain, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru) via an online questionnaire and an unstructured interview (Figure 1).
The system was then designed in accordance with the process outlined in Figure 1: In the 'Organized and Participatory Society' dimension, a broad definition of society is adopted, encompassing citizens and organizations but excluding the for-profit entities covered by the second dimension (Democratic and Pluralist Economy).Civil society is therefore understood to comprise individuals, collectives, organizations and institutions and to represent a force for progress towards common interests (CIVICUS, 2019).
The broad understanding of society underpinning this dimension requires the selection of components and indicators allowing common aspects relevant to social innovation to be compiled, on the one hand, and the limits shared with other areas (such as the economic sector) to be managed in the most satisfactory manner possible, on the other (Table 2).
The second dimension used in this analysis, 'Democratic and Pluralist Economy', follows Razeto (1999), who points to the idea that a new economy should be based on a distinct 'democratic' market and a 'pluralist' method of economic organization.The presence of a democratic, pluralist economy does not entail a rejection of the traditional market economy, but is understood instead as way of organizing the economy in a region whereby the new is linked to the traditional in a harmonious, complementary fashion.
A region's economy may be said to be democratic when market control and wealth are socially distributed and dispersed, and where no single company exercises monopolistic or highly concentrated power.In a democratic market, true equality of opportunities is established, reducing the power of large corporations and boosting activity among small-scale economic actors (Razeto, 1999).
However, even if a market functions in a fully democratic manner, this is not sufficient (Razeto, 1999).Action is required from the other two main sectors -the public, state economy and the social, solidarity economy-to meet needs among certain segments of the population which the traditional market is unable or uninterested in addressing (economic inclusion and fulfilling the needs of vulnerable groups, among others).This requires a pluralist economy based on the three sectors-public, private and collective.Drawing on this understanding of the economy, this dimension contains three components: social purpose, business community and innovation activity (Table 3).
The 'Institutionalization and Social Innovation' dimension is complex and requires the existence of a national, government-managed social policy to encourage social innovation and entrepreneurship; specific regulatory frameworks for businesses and social entrepreneurs; a transparent, fair legal system that genuinely operates under the rule of law; and relationships between territorial stakeholders, among other aspects.In short, flexible regulations and policies to encourage social innovation are needed.Measuring these types of indicators, which are predominantly qualitative in nature, is difficult but necessary, at the regional and sub-regional level (Innobasque, 2013) (Table 4).The main lines of social innovation policy emerge at the national level.But, taking into account the particularities of each territory, it is crucial to adapt them to each local area to achieve more appropriate results.
The first three dimensions described -Organized and Participatory Society, Democratic and Pluralist Economy, and Institutionalization of Social Innovation-represent the framework conditions and measure the level of regional resources and initial conditions required for SI to emerge at a given time.
The fourth dimension measures the variation or evolution of territorial performance over a given period, allowing the trend towards creation of socially innovative environments to be calculated.A 'Socially Innovative Environment' is defined as a region which systematically capitalizes on aptitudes and behaviors that are oriented to the production, transmission and accumulation of knowledge and expertise, resulting in an increase in productive and social capacity in order to fulfill needs and solve problems.The ultimate objective of such environments is improved wellbeing and development (Lisetchi & Brancu, 2014).Socially innovative environments are those that facilitate societal processes and empowerment, improving the capacity for SI diversification in particular (ECLAC., 2022).
Most of the available statistics adopt a Schumpeterian perspective, positioning businesses as the main protagonists in processes for generating innovation.This approach allows the creation of socially innovative environments to be explained from a business perspective only.In order to fulfill the stated objective, the proposed indicator system must contextualize innovation regionally and incorporate other variables (social, environmental and institutional) that play a role in the region's sustainable development.
The approach adopted for this dimension is based on the assumption that an environment considered to be innovative must display certain tangible and intangible characteristics.The tangible characteristics are identified and quantified using conventional territorial revitalization indicators that reflect changes in the social fabric and business community, while social and territorial cohesion serve as the intangible indicators (Table 5).
Finally, the 'Integral Territorial Development' dimension revolves around the idea that each region is unique in terms of its characteristics, conditions and, above all, development priorities.As such, the variables selected when applying the proposed indicator system to a specific region should correspond closely to its development strategies and plans, addressing regional characteristics and specificities.In terms of regional needs and demands, SI must have a greater impact, especially in the areas targeted by strategic development objectives (Table 6).
As in the Socially Innovative Environments dimension, the indicators in this dimension are presented as rates of change due to the time they take to emerge.Performance indicators should preferably be available for a baseline year in order to ECONOMIC RESEARCH-EKONOMSKA ISTRAŽIVANJA measure variation over the subsequent period.The impact of SI on development in the form of profound structural changes in all areas (social, economic, environmental, political and cultural, among others) can only be seen over the long term.
The proposed dimensions with their components and indicators are integrated into the Territorial Potential Measurement System for Social Innovation, the summary of which is presented in Table 7.The five dimensions of the proposal are based on 16 components.Each of these components is built basing on 41 indicators.Finally, each indicator is calculated from its sub-indicators, as a basic unit of measurement, which are obtained from the primary and secondary statistical information sources identified and available in the territories.The theoretical proposal validated by the experts contemplates 330 sub-indicators, where 250 of them measure the framework conditions (Appendix A).This number of sub-indicators may be lower, depending on a data availability, as in the case of Planning Zone 7 in Ecuador (Appendix B).
It is important to emphasize that the indicator system created by the authors, which is structured around five dimensions (Organized and Participatory Society, Democratic and Pluralist Economy, Institutionalization of Social Innovation, Socially Innovative Environments and Integral Territorial Development) and centered on the main factors driving SI, may be used both to perform a situational analysis of a region and to compare different regions.In the first case, each indicator is applied individually, permitting a detailed analysis.In the second, the system can be used to guide the creation of a composite index for comparison between different regions.The depth of analysis that is possible will always depend on the availability of data for each case study, which will vary depending on the unique characteristics of each region.
The proposed indicator system serves to identify regions with superior capacity and enables the patterns and conditions contributing to their performance to be studied.It could therefore be used to formulate policies for promoting SI.The model also links theoretical assumptions to empirical indicators.
As previously noted, the indicator system presented here may be applied to any region, with particular emphasis on more disadvantaged areas.It was piloted in Planning Area 7 in Ecuador, an underdeveloped region in one of the least-developed countries in Latin America, and produced important results that may contribute to the region's development.

Validation of the territorial potential for social innovation index as applied to Planning Area 7 in Ecuador
The new indicator system proposed in the previous section has been designed for use in all regions of the world.However, it is important to adapt it to the context under study.In order to validate the system, it was piloted in one of the nine regions in Ecuador (Planning Area 7) to identify the available conditions for generating SI and assess the degree to which socially innovative environments are being developed in the region.Planning Area 7 is one of the most disadvantaged regions in Ecuador.It is located in the south and has a surface area of 27,492 km 2 , representing 11% of the country's territory.It has 1,325,000 inhabitants (7.8% of the total population), 65.7% of whom live in urban areas and 34.3% in rural areas.The population is 50.2% male and 49.8% female (INEC, 2019).
The region contains three of the country's 24 provinces (El Oro, Loja and Zamora Chinchipe), with 39 of the 221 cantons and 191 of the 1,149 parishes in Ecuador.70% of the region's cantons are considered to be depressed.For this reason, the implementation of initiatives to promote social innovation and the activation of endogenous resources is key for territorial development.
Therefore, identifying the region's main strengths and weaknesses can inform public policies for promoting social innovation as a far-reaching alternative for assessing and resolving problems, closing gaps and generating development.
In view of the potential benefits generated by SI, governments are increasingly seeking to take effective action to promote this form of innovation, commissioning academic studies that generate the knowledge needed for public action.
This study adds value to previous research, focusing on the factors involved in generating social innovation using meso-level (regional) analysis.In order to achieve the research objective, the authors opted to create the TP_SI Composite Index, which is based on the system set out in this article and adapted to the specific characteristics of the region under study.
For the construction of the composite index, the phased design methodology developed by the OECD ( 2008) has been applied.The referred stages are: the selection of indicators based on the theoretical-conceptual framework, the multivariate analysis, the imputation of missing data, the normalization of the data, the weighting and aggregation of the indicators, and the analysis of uncertainty and sensitivity.
The inclusion of the composite index of the indicators and sub-indicators, previously identified according to the conceptual criteria of the theoretical framework, was subjected to statistical validation by applying the Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient.This made it possible to verify that each evaluated indicator reliably collects information from the sub-indicators that comprise it.For imputation of missing data, explicit modeling using the mean as the allocation measure was selected.Identified outliers were adjusted to prevent undesirable bias.In the data normalization stage, among the available techniques, the ordering of indicators between units of analysis and re-scaling has been considered as the most appropriate for this study.
Finally, the different combination of viable methods according to the type of normalization, weighting and aggregation previously analyzed in each stage, made it possible to establish a delimited number of work scenarios, to verify the degree of subjectivity of the index and evaluate its sensitivity.
A total of 5,226 observations (excluding lost data) corresponding to 39 units of analysis (the cantons in Planning Area 7) were obtained.134 sub-indicators were then applied to these units, leaving the overall structure for measuring TP_SI unaltered.
Statistical sources related to the indicators in the TP_SI model were then selected.Questionnaires containing relevant data were reviewed and information from other public and private organizations such as civil society organizations, social and political movements, the national supervisory bodies for companies and banks, the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute and the country's Internal Revenue Service was consulted.
The first part of the analysis focused on studying the quality of the indicators.Indicators and sub-indicators were first selected for inclusion in the composite index according to the conceptual criteria imposed by the theoretical framework.These indicators and sub-indicators then underwent statistical validation using several multivariate analysis techniques.
As a result of this statistical procedure, 23 indicators were obtained, represented by 67 reliable sub-indicators which are distributed equally across all components and dimensions, allowing the index proposed in this study to be calculated.In other words, this step produced the indicators and reliable sub-indicators which measure the phenomenon under study and are suitable for inclusion in the composite index.
Based on the Territorial Potential for Social Innovation Index (TP_SI) for Planning Area 7 and applying the theoretical framework underpinning the model and the indicator system produced in this study, the results obtained are presented below.Responses were sought to questions such as: What resources are available to Planning Area 7 and its cantons to promote SI? How are these resources distributed spatially?Which dimensions of the TP_SI model are the most favorable and which are less developed?
By exploring these questions, we have been able to identify the main challenges involved in promoting SI in the region under study and in other vulnerable areas throughout the country.
Following rigorous analysis of the indicator system proposed in this study, adapted to the regional specificities of Planning Area 7, the most relevant aspects are as follows: Good performance on indicators in the Organized and Participatory Society dimension in the most vulnerable cantons.Weak and incipient development of the business community, albeit one that is democratic and pluralist in nature, with significant presence of SMEs and organizations operating in the informal, solidarity economy.Government incentives for institutionalizing SI and supporting regional efforts are underused, calling for significant improvements.The financial wing of Ecuador's informal, solidarity economy as an important agent in driving SI through the allocation of funds for micro-credits.These are essential for micro-ventures and SI and must be stimulated by public policies.Existence of significant inequality between cantons which, if not addressed, could further widen territorial gaps, curbing regional development in the short and medium term.
These results, as well as others obtained from the application of the TP_SI model to a specific region, allow us to observe the practical scope of the integral nature of the proposed system compared to other works of a more specific nature, which was mentioned at the beginning of this study.In this regard, other available tools and measurement systems take a sectoral approach to SI, exploring topics such as the impact of community and third-sector initiatives (Anheier et al., 2015;Dancause & Longtin, 2014), the capabilities of regional organizations (Benedek et al., 2016;Unceta et al., 2016) and the performance and innovation capacity of public sector organizations (Bloch et al., 2009).
The TP_SI model proposed here provides a overview of the existing economic, institutional and social capabilities for developing this multidimensional phenomenon in a specific region, contributing in conceptual terms to the field of SI measurement and in empirical terms to the practical application of such measurement systems.
By applying the rigorous, structured methodology of the proposed indicator system at a highly disaggregated level, this analysis enhances our understanding of the region, its endogenous resources and its potential, allowing strategic measures for improvement to be designed that provide a tailored response to regional circumstances and offer a greater guarantee of success.
The pilot study in Ecuador's Planning Area 7 opens up new and diverse possibilities for the model to be applied to other regions.The system proposed in this study thus contributes to territorial development, not only in the most disadvantaged regions but also in more advanced regions.

Conclusions
By demonstrating that the components of territorial potential for social innovation are a key driver of development, this article has fulfilled its overarching objective.Based on this, a system of indicators capable of measuring territorial potential for social innovation was designed, which is applicable to any region and adaptable to specific regional needs and characteristics.
Based on your recommendation, the following explanatory paragraph is included in the conclusions: To validate the theoretical model, a pilot application was carried out in Planning Area 7 of Ecuador, through the development of the Territorial Potential Index for Social Innovation.Based on the specific data collected from the region, after analyzing them according to the design methodology by stages of the composite index, an adjustment to the initial theoretical indicator system has been achieved, obtaining a model adjusted to the conditions of the analysis region.This produced a series of results which will be very useful in designing and implementing regional socioeconomic policies and ensuring a higher rate of success.
The empirical contribution made by this article is therefore highly relevant in promoting integral regional development and improving societies in specific regions.
The article also makes a significant, highly original contribution in conceptual and methodological terms by incorporating new elements into the scientific debate on social innovation and by approaching the territorial variable from a integral perspective, encompassing social, economic and institutional dimensions and the cross-cutting environmental variable.
This study opens up some very interesting new lines of research, incorporating new indicators-depending on the research objectives-and the possibility of applying them to different regions.

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New companies according to their economic purposes (ESS, EPU, EPR) and size (micro; small; medium; and large), % of the total Liquidated and dissolved companies according to their economic purposes and size, % Total companies according to their economic purposes and size, % variation (continued)

Figure 1 .
Figure 1.Territorial potential for social innovation indicator system.Source: the authors.

Table 1 .
Methodology used in model construction.

Table 2 .
Components and indicators: 'Organized and Participatory Society' dimension.

Table 3 .
Components and indicators: 'Democratic and Pluralist Economy' dimension.

Table 4 .
Components and indicators: 'Institutionalization of Social Innovation' dimension.

Table 7 .
Summary: proposed territorial potential for social innovation indicator system.
Components / Indicators / Sub-indicators 2.2.3.Cooperation weighted importance of information by type of source and of cooperation by type of collaborator, perception; Cooperation with consumers; competitors; providers; consultants; universities; S&T public entities, % of companies 2.3 Innovation Activity 2.3.1.Innovation Sector Specialized staff training; Employees (total and women) according to training level (PhD, master's degree, specialist, third level, technician or higher technologist), % 2.3.2.Inverstment R&D, market studies, % companies; Investment in Innovation according to the objective (productive, social, environmental), according to financing (universities, other sources), according to items (acquisition of machinery and equipment; hardware; software; disincorporated technology; consultancies and technical assistance; engineering and industrial design; training), % of total 2.3.3.Obstacles Weighted importance of the cost factor (lack of funds; high innovation costs); of the knowledge factor (lack of qualified personnel, difficulty in finding cooperation partners for innovation), perception Comments III.Framework dimension.Institutionalization of Social Innovation 3.1.Institutions 3.1.1.Transparency and best administrative practices Existence of institutional accountability and transparency mechanisms; of social inclusion; of concerted work with the various local actors, of the proper use of services and the promotion of a payment culture, %.Expenses financed (personnel, current, and production) with own funds; efficiency in the use of resources (capital expenses; investment), % 3.1.2.Networks and alliances Memberships in networks relevant to SI (local, provincial, regional and national), average; Public-Private alliances, N projects in execution 3.2.Promotion 3.2.1.Government programs Level of knowledge about support programs (quality improvement and certification; personnel training; support for innovation; technical assistance for technology adoption and business management; support for entrepreneurship; promotion of exports), % of companies that have the knowledge; Access to support programs, % of companies that access 3.2.2.Government incentives Usefulness of government incentives for their business valuation (adaptation to specific needs; interest rate charged; required guarantees; established bureaucratic processes; clarity of guidelines; management of confidentiality), perception;Tax reduction for social purposes, % of territorial GVA 3.2.3.Supporting infrastructure Broadband penetration rate, %; level of development of the state road network with respect to traffic (urban and rural), population served; investment in technological equipment, $ per 1,000 inhabitants; centers for learning and collaborative work (incubators, coworking, infocenters), N per 1,000 inhabitants; level of use of spaces for learning and collaborative work, % 3.3.Financing 3.3.1.Availability Bank loans, private cooperatives and public banks (commercial; consumption; microcredit; housing), $ per 1,000 inhabitants 3.3.2.Protection Provisions of public, private banks and credit portfolio cooperatives (commercial, housing, educational, microcredit, consumption), % of portfolio 3.3.3.Social spending Amount of non-reimbursable resources, subsidies or social bonds, % of GVA; Social spending per capita, thousands of $; Elderly people receiving assistance pension, people with disabilities receiving assistance pension, % population Comments IV.Performance dimension.Socially Innovative Environments 4.1.Territorial Revitalization 4.1.1.Social CSOs (new, liquidated or dissolved), % of total; Total CSOs, % variation; Degree of associativity of civil society, % variation 4.1.2