Which term is the practice of using structured hypothetical futures to guide decision making?

Which term is the practice of using structured hypothetical futures to guide decision making?

• A. Pivotal Questions
• B. Weak Signals
• C. Scenario Planning
• D. Creative Friction

Answer: (C)

Scenario planning is a method for guiding decisions by exploring structured, plausible future scenarios rather than relying on a single forecast. It starts by identifying major driving forces and key uncertainties, then builds a small set of distinct, coherent futures. The goal is to test strategies across these futures, uncover vulnerabilities, and develop actions that are robust no matter which future unfolds. It also helps establish early indicators that signal which scenario might be coming, so you can respond proactively. This approach differs from weak signals (subtle hints of change), pivotal questions (critical questions to focus thinking), and creative friction (a creative process to generate ideas), since it provides a formal framework for imagining multiple futures and guiding decision making under uncertainty.

Scenario planning is a method for guiding decisions by exploring structured, plausible future scenarios rather than relying on a single forecast. It starts by identifying major driving forces and key uncertainties, then builds a small set of distinct, coherent futures. The goal is to test strategies across these futures, uncover vulnerabilities, and develop actions that are robust no matter which future unfolds. It also helps establish early indicators that signal which scenario might be coming, so you can respond proactively. This approach differs from weak signals (subtle hints of change), pivotal questions (critical questions to focus thinking), and creative friction (a creative process to generate ideas), since it provides a formal framework for imagining multiple futures and guiding decision making under uncertainty.