Course Information

Introduction

Understanding the complexities of the future has become a critical skill for leaders, policymakers, and professionals across all industries. Future Studies and Foresight provide structured methodologies for analyzing trends, anticipating changes, and developing strategic responses to emerging challenges. This course offers participants a comprehensive foundation in the principles, tools, and applications of foresight, enabling them to navigate uncertainty and drive long-term success in their respective fields.

The discipline of Future Studies integrates elements of strategic planning, systems thinking, and scenario analysis to identify potential futures and their implications. By using systematic approaches, professionals can assess risks, opportunities, and transformative trends shaping industries, societies, and economies. The ability to anticipate and proactively respond to change has never been more important, as global disruptions, technological advancements, and socio-economic shifts redefine the way businesses and governments operate.

Participants in this course will explore key foresight methodologies, including horizon scanning, scenario planning, trend analysis, and Delphi techniques. These methods empower decision-makers to develop resilient strategies and prepare for multiple possible futures. A proactive approach to future studies enhances an organization’s ability to innovate, mitigate risks, and adapt to emerging challenges with confidence and agility.

Practical case studies and real-world examples will illustrate how foresight is applied in different sectors, such as government policy, corporate strategy, sustainability, and technological innovation. Through interactive sessions and hands-on exercises, attendees will gain experience in using foresight tools to analyze complex problems and formulate forward-thinking solutions.

Moreover, this course emphasizes the ethical and societal implications of foresight, ensuring that participants understand the broader responsibilities associated with anticipating the future. Ethical considerations, stakeholder engagement, and the role of inclusive decision-making will be examined to equip learners with a holistic understanding of responsible foresight practices.

By the end of the program, participants will have developed the skills necessary to conduct foresight exercises, influence strategic planning processes, and contribute to long-term organizational success. Whether working in corporate leadership, government policy, or academia, attendees will be better prepared to shape the future rather than simply react to it.

Objectives

By attending this course, participants will be able to:

Understand the fundamental principles and key methodologies of Future Studies and Foresight.
Identify and analyze emerging trends, disruptions, and transformative forces across industries.
Apply strategic foresight tools such as horizon scanning, scenario planning, and trend mapping.
Develop and assess alternative future scenarios to enhance decision-making and risk management.
Integrate foresight into strategic planning processes to improve organizational resilience and innovation.
Evaluate the ethical, societal, and policy implications of foresight-driven strategies.
Enhance critical thinking and long-term visioning skills to influence decision-making at an organizational level.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

Corporate executives, strategists, and business leaders responsible for long-term planning.
Government officials, policymakers, and public sector professionals engaged in policy development.
Risk managers, innovation officers, and strategic planners seeking to improve decision-making.
Researchers, academics, and consultants specializing in future-oriented disciplines.
Professionals in technology, sustainability, and economic development who need to anticipate industry shifts.
Individuals interested in understanding the impact of global trends and future uncertainties on their organizations.

Training Method

• Pre-assessment
• Live group instruction
• Use of real-world examples, case studies and exercises
• Interactive participation and discussion
• Power point presentation, LCD and flip chart
• Group activities and tests
• Each participant receives a 7” Tablet containing a copy of the presentation, slides and handouts
• Post-assessment

Program Support

This program is supported by:
* Interactive discussions
* Role-play
* Case studies and highlight the techniques available to the participants.

Daily Agenda

The course agenda will be as follows:
• Technical Session 08.30-10.00 am
• Coffee Break 10.00-10.15 am
• Technical Session 10.15-12.15 noon
• Coffee Break 12.15-12.45 pm
• Technical Session 12.45-02.30 pm
• Course Ends 02.30 pm