FIF Series EP 69 - Spectrum Scenario Planning in Practice

We dive into Spectrum Scenario Planning, a sophisticated approach that leverages our spectrum layer analysis framework to create rich, multidimensional future scenarios that help build organizational resilience.

• Traditional scenario planning uses a limited two-by-two matrix with four possible futures
• Spectrum scenario planning explores futures across a spectrum of possibilities rather than binary options
• Apply spectrum layer analysis to examine futures through seven layers from surface events to deep metaphors
• Identify the super shifts most relevant to your domain and define critical uncertainties as spectrums
• Create divergent scenarios that differ fundamentally at every level, not just surface changes
• Bring scenarios to life through scenario design fiction writing with artifacts like headlines, journals, and advertisements
• Test current strategies against multiple futures to find robust approaches that work across scenarios
• Look for strategic options to activate if specific scenarios begin to materialize
• Avoid creating scenarios that aren't truly divergent or that remain too abstract
• Communicate scenarios effectively with vivid names and compelling narratives
• Regularly revisit and refine scenarios as new signals emerge

In our next episode, we'll build on this foundation with backcasting, a powerful technique that starts with your preferred future and works backward to create a roadmap for getting there.

ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts

🎧 Listen Now On:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO

Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/

Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.