Strumenti tecnologici per l'innovazione sociale : progettazione e sperimentazione di un sistema informativo per il monitoraggio e la tutela dei minori vulnerabili

The article describes Puzzle Puglia information system, a technological platform built, according to a participatory logic, by social researchers and practitioners “experts by experiences” to meet the recognized need for social innovation in the field of vulnerable children’s protection. From a procedural perspective, social workers who tested the informational system have considered it an innovative best practice supporting them in decision-making processes and interventions’ planning concerning the single case. Moreover, from a scientific standpoint, using social indicators and standardized assessment questionnaire could promote new research lines and evidence-based knowledge regarding practices’ effectiveness. Despite some limits that should be overcome in a final version of the system, the instrument proved its effectiveness both to support outcome’s evaluation research and guide social workers practices and represents a useful device to prevent and contrast children institutionalization.