People-centred approaches to engineering, research, and social design
We are facilitators, trainers, researchers, social scientists, and engineers.
Small is Beautiful is a collective of social-technical hybrids. We work in the space between community and for-purpose organisations, government, and businesses.
Positive impact for people and the environment is central to what we work on. Our strengths lie in designing and supporting "engineering for good" projects that are culturally regenerative, locally relevant, and have lasting impact. We see people as being experts in their own context. We place them at the centre of the design of projects and services that impact their lives. Our name "Small is Beautiful" is inspired by E.F. Schumacher's seminal book of the same name, and his nod to localisation as a force of change.
What we do
Research and defining opportunities
We help people and organisations articulate the opportunity or problem. We use desktop and applied research to bring evidence and lived experience to the opportunity or problem space.
Co-designing, pilots, and delivery
We create spaces and processes for community, organisations, and professionals to bring their knowledge and experience to the design process. Our approach ensures projects are locally relevant, culturally appropriate, and have stickability. We also deliver pilot programs and training.
Monitoring, evaluation,
celebration, learning
We co-produce knowledge with our clients and their community. We provide evidence-based learning and recommendations based on local context. Our ME(C)&L work supports learning, decision-making, accountability, affirmation, and capacity building.
Action areas
We focus on change in the following action areas:
Our approach and principles
Strength-based approaches
A philosophy and a practice, a strength-based approach (SBA) means supporting what communities care about, using what they're good at. It means starting with what’s strong, rather than what's wrong. A SBA is more likely to inspire and provide the building blocks for change. Learn more here.
Collaboration
Complex challenges of our time require diverse voices and expertise. We work across disciplines and broker partnerships, bringing together the unique expertise of different communities, organisations, and sectors. We focus on transformative partnerships that are inclusive and mutually beneficial.
Caring for Country
We are passionate about caring for Country, Culture and Community. Our team is based in Australia and works locally on, and is supported by, Aboriginal land. We are committed to inside change by reflecting on our worldview and practice, and playing a supportive role in truth, reconciliation, and acknowledge the gift of Indigenous culture to Australia.
Inclusion
All voices, and change for all. Our work aims to improve the ability of people to contribute fully to society. We recognise change is experienced by people from diverse backgrounds and abilities differently and impacts people differently. Our work engages diverse people with diverse backgrounds and abilities. Our experience includes working with Indigenous groups, and gender equality.
Co-design
Co-design means engaging those impacted by a program or design in the design process. It recognises the value of diverse skill sets, life experiences, and backgrounds. Co-design produces more relevant outcomes. And for those engaged in the process, it supports ownership and empowerment.
Testimonials
Not all motivations are created equal
The quality of our motivations matter. Junk motivation, like carrot and stick type motivations, drive our behaviour but often makes us feel controlled and tends to fade when the carrot or stick are removed. By contrast, high-quality motivation, like engaging in a task because we care about it, helps us feel good and perform better.
What is a strength-based approach and why does it matter?
Strength-based approaches are both a philosophy and a process. The approach views people and place as rich in strengths which can be highlighted and harnessed to create change. In this article we outline what a SBA is, and how it might help you facilitate change.
Designing for motivations
How can you create practices and environments that promote well-being and high-quality performance? In this article we delve into the Self-determination Theory of motivation.
Contact us
If you would like to know more about how Small is Beautiful can help your project, please contact us using the form or details below.