DIGITAL SOCIAL INNOVATION — A NARRATIVE REVIEW AND FUTURE RESEARCH DIRECTIONS

In an era of massive expansion in research publications and an avalanche of information, balanced and critical literature reviews serve a crucial function. Using a narrative literature review for the present study, we synthesise and clarify the concept of Digital Social Innovation (DSI) and its key features, and identify gaps and inconsistencies in existing studies. It also develops and proposes a DSI framework and suggests a future research agenda. It probes 27 highly relevant articles published between 2015 and 2024. Consequently, we propose a five-domain conceptual framework (technology, actors/stakeholders, process, outcomes, and support mechanisms) that maps the key relationships driving DSI initiatives. Our narrative review shows that DSI is largely associated with co-creation, sustainability, and social needs. We propose an integrative definition that positions DSI as a collaborative, technology-enabled process for generating social value and reflects DSI’s role in expanding access and inclusion for underserved communities in developing and emerging economies. Thus, our findings are relevant to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG-1 (No poverty), SDG-4 (Quality education), and SDG-10 (Reduced inequalities). We identify gaps, including limited research in developing countries, a few longitudinal studies, and insufficient attention to marginalised groups. The proposed framework and definition can guide policymakers, regulators, startups, and tech companies in designing business plans, policies, and regulations that generate social impact and economic value.