RRI Maturity
Understanding Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI)
Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) provides a structured way for organisations and researchers to anticipate the impacts of their work, reflect on its broader consequences, and respond to emerging challenges. It focuses on aligning research and innovation processes with the needs, values, and expectations of society. The concept is rooted in anticipation, inclusiveness, reflexivity, and responsiveness.
At ORBIT RRI, we help research institutions, funders, and private organisations understand how to embed RRI principles in everyday practice. Drawing on peer-reviewed frameworks such as those discussed in Sustainability (MDPI, 2017), we view RRI not as a checklist but as a process of continual learning and improvement that supports trustworthy and sustainable innovation.
The RRI Maturity Model
The RRI Maturity Model, developed through analysis of multiple organisational case studies, provides a structured approach to measuring how well RRI principles are integrated within an organisation. The model identifies different levels of maturity, from initial awareness through to embedded, reflexive practice.
Each stage reflects increasing capability in areas such as governance, stakeholder engagement, ethical reflection, and sustainability. By assessing current maturity levels, organisations can identify gaps, set measurable objectives, and plan long-term improvements.
ORBIT RRI offers practical support to assess and enhance RRI maturity, helping organisations to:
- Map current capabilities and institutional practices.
- Develop action plans to advance through the maturity levels.
- Integrate RRI into project management and decision-making structures.
- Build a culture of ethical reflection and transparency.
This framework is evidence-based and consistent with findings published in international sustainability and innovation policy research.
Ethics by Design and Trustworthy Innovation
Ethics by Design extends the RRI approach into the design phase of emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data-driven systems. Instead of retroactively addressing ethical issues, it embeds ethical and social considerations from the outset.
Our expertise in Ethics by Design ensures that AI and digital innovation projects address transparency, accountability, and inclusivity throughout the lifecycle. ORBIT RRI works with both public and private sector partners to apply these principles in practical, measurable ways, turning high-level ethical commitments into actionable project requirements.
By integrating ethical reflection into design and deployment, organisations can strengthen public trust, reduce reputational risk, and align with UKRI, Horizon Europe, and OECD policy expectations.
Developing RRI Capability through ORBIT Training
Building internal expertise is crucial to achieving sustained RRI maturity. ORBIT RRI provides structured training and professional development opportunities that equip teams with the tools to embed responsible innovation practices.
These programmes are developed by experienced researchers and practitioners, grounded in evidence and aligned with the latest academic and policy thinking. They support individual and organisational growth towards higher RRI maturity and a culture of responsible, trustworthy innovation.