There are a number of approaches to scenario planning and the wide range of literature available covers a range of suggested steps which vary in number and priority but there is a high degree of commonality which we’ve incorporated into this step-by-step guide. There are a range of activities and techniques referred to that you can apply to the tasks and we’ve covered some of the best ones in the subsequent ‘applying creativity’ chapter.
Some steps also include downloadable workshop structures for you to take away, tailor and use.
Scoping
What is the question/issue you want to answer/address?
Trend analysis
Identify external forces in operation and consider the pressures they play
Building scenarios
Using the outcomes from the first two stages, build your scenarios to explore
Generate options
Consider options available within the scenarios – innovations, new services, projects and opportunities
Test options
Identify and discuss potential implications and impacts of scenarios on the identified options
Action plan
Define an action plan as a result of these activities