Triggering Futures Thinking • FAQ
FAQ #1 • WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FUTURES AND FORESIGHT?
Typically, we say futures to mean a broad look at multiple possible futures whereas foresight describes the systematic process of using those insights for decisions and planning. While many people use the terms interchangeably, it’s nice to know the distinctions.
FAQ #2 • WHICH FUTURES AND FORESIGHT METHODS SHOULD BE USED AND WHEN?
This requires a much broader conversation, of course, but two approaches are shared here as illustrative: (1) Approach #1 (below and left) is a combination of typical methods. (2) Approach #2 (below and right) also produces useful foresight and identifies unanticipated and unintended consequences.
FAQ #3 • WHAT ARE SOME REQUIREMENTS FOR EFFECTIVE FUTURES AND FORESIGHT WORK?
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Appropriate selection and handling of the underlying data.
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Appropriate use of each method.
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Ability to leverage the futures/foresight work to identify virtuous cycles and opportunities for transformation.
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Ability to establish flexible preferred outcomes, eternals, criteria for satisfaction, and/or obligations to future generations.
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Ability to setup evergreen processes, especially for horizon scanning, discernment, and pivots.
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And more! Check out FAQ #6 for caveats....
FAQ #4 • WHAT ARE SOME PRACTICES THAT TRIGGER FUTURES THINKING?
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Meditate.
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Travel and hike.
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Write jokes.
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Grapple with unusual images.
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Convene unexpected experts.
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And more! Check out FAQ #6 for caveats....
FAQ #5 • ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR NEXT READS?
FAQ #6 • ADDITIONAL CAVEATS?
Yes, so many caveats! This page was built in response to a question about triggering futures thinking and is thus only high level.
“The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” Alan Kay
