On September 25, 2024, we held a validation workshop for the ROBIN Toolbox with members of the Advisory Board. The focus of the meeting was to present the results of the alpha testing phase, followed by a discussion and feedback session aimed at refining and improving the tool.
The workshop began with a presentation of the ROBIN Toolbox, highlighting its key features and components. The toolbox consists of three main elements, designed to support regional partners in implementing and managing their governance models:
ROBIN Toolbox is comprised of three components supporting the regional partners in implementing their governance models and structures:
• ROBIN Knowledge Platform includes different regional bioeconomy governance models and good governance practices.
• ROBIN Tools for the development of circular bioeconomy governance models, evaluation of the performance of the governance model and detection of non-environmentally friendly practices across environmental management areas.
• ROBIN Support Actions Portfolio tailored to the needs of the ROBIN regions.
Following the toolbox presentation, an overview of the methodology used during the alpha testing phase was presented. The initial results of the alpha testing were then shared, giving Advisory Board members insight into how the toolbox performed in real cases.
The next part of the meeting was a discussion and feedback session, where Advisory Board members shared their expertise and thoughts on the alpha testing results. Their feedback included:
- Recommendations for enhancing the user interface design, focusing on improving the user experience.
- Suggestions for optimisation, particularly in areas where the toolbox could perform more efficiently or address specific user needs better.
- Suggestions for improving stakeholder engagement, ensuring that the toolbox is aligned with the needs and expectations of all stakeholders involved in regional bioeconomy governance.
The workshop concluded with a summary of the key points discussed. The ROBIN team discussed the next steps which include incorporating the feedback into further development and preparing for the beta testing phase. The input from the Advisory Board members will be critical in ensuring that the ROBIN Toolbox evolves into an even more robust and effective tool for bioeconomy regional governance.
