Samenvatting

Co-creation research has the potential to produce valuable knowledge and tools,
yet it often falls short of driving substantial practical changes due to insufficient
engagement of the wider system. This article introduces the Large Scale
Interventions (LSI) approach, designed to foster ownership and accountability
for change within organisations and society. LSI integrates large group meetings
with stakeholders for joint inquiry and validation alongside smaller team
collaborations focused on tool development, trials, and subsequent actions for
implementation. Using the “Impactful Graduation” project in Dutch Higher
Professional Education as a case study, we illustrate the pivotal role of a steering
committee in achieving systemic impact. By applying LSI principles also in the
meetings with the steering committee, we co-created processes and tools leading
to ever-widening circles of stakeholder engagement. We reflect on this project’s
process and outcomes using a framework for change strategies and engagement
levels. Our main lessons highlight the critical importance of shared leadership
and responsibility in the steering committee for all decisions, as well as in the
funding phase. Additionally, ensuring sufficient resources are available to
support all participants in large group meetings, particularly stakeholders who
participate in their free time, can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the
LSI approach.