Twenty-Five Innovations from Abroad

摘要

This survey of service delivery improvement ideas from around the world focuses on the dynamics of the transfer process without attempting a technical analysis of the pros and cons of each idea. Where a language barrier or the need for lengthy correspondence with foreign countries is involved, the likelihood of successful transfer diminishes. When someone in the United States is already working with an idea as a licensee, distributor, or colleague, chances for transfer improve dramatically. This handbook describes 25 ideas at a particular stage in the transfer process. The attempt is to ferret out the essential elements and commonalities for the international idea exchange mechanism using specific case histories. For each innovation the following is noted: problem addressed, solution, source, benefits, transfer, and contact. Topics covered include cost savings, energy, handicapped and elderly service delivery, housing, information exchange, traffic management/transportation, urban aesthetics/environment, and waste management.