What are the challenges of using gamification for social impact?

1 Designing for diversity

One of the challenges of using gamification for social impact is to design games that are inclusive and respectful of the diverse needs, preferences, and cultures of the target audience. Gamification should not impose a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather adapt to the context and the users. This requires careful research, testing, and feedback to avoid stereotypes, biases, and unintended consequences. For example, a game that rewards recycling might not work well in a community that lacks access to waste management services.

3 Measuring and evaluating outcomes

A third challenge of using gamification for social impact is to measure and evaluate the outcomes of the game. Gamification should not only track the quantitative data, such as the number of players, the time spent, or the actions completed, but also the qualitative data, such as the attitudes, emotions, or perceptions of the players. Gamification should also not assume that the game is the only or the main factor influencing the social impact, but rather consider the other variables and the external factors that might affect it. For example, a game that aims to reduce poverty might not capture the complex and multifaceted nature of the problem.

4 Ensuring ethical and responsible use

A fourth challenge of using gamification for social impact is to ensure the ethical and responsible use of the game. Gamification should not manipulate, deceive, or exploit the players, but rather respect their autonomy, privacy, and dignity. Gamification should also not harm, offend, or exclude anyone, but rather promote social justice, equity, and inclusion. Gamification should also not create or exacerbate any negative or unintended effects, such as addiction, competition, or fatigue, but rather prevent or mitigate them. For example, a game that aims to increase civic participation might not respect the democratic principles or the human rights of the players.

5 Sustaining engagement and impact

A fifth challenge of using gamification for social impact is to sustain the engagement and the impact of the game. Gamification should not be a one-time or a short-term intervention, but rather a continuous or a long-term strategy. Gamification should also not be isolated or disconnected from the real world, but rather integrated or connected to the relevant stakeholders, resources, and opportunities. Gamification should also not be static or rigid, but rather dynamic or flexible, to adapt to the changing needs, preferences, and behaviors of the players. For example, a game that aims to improve education might not be relevant or effective if the curriculum, the technology, or the pedagogy changes.

6 Learning from best practices and examples

A sixth challenge of using gamification for social impact is to learn from the best practices and examples of the field. Gamification is not a new or a unique phenomenon, but rather a part of a larger and a richer landscape of social innovation and digital transformation. Gamification can benefit from the insights, lessons, and experiences of other disciplines, sectors, and initiatives that have used games or gamelike elements for social impact. Gamification can also inspire and collaborate with other actors and stakeholders that share the same vision and mission of creating positive change. For example, a game that aims to protect the environment might learn from or partner with other environmental organizations, movements, or campaigns.