What is foresight?
Foresight is an approach that gives us the power to shape the future – and not just let it happen. It is not about predicting the future, no one can do that, but about working with scenarios of possible futures based on the knowledge we have today. With their help, we can make the decisions today that shape our tomorrow the way we want.
I Vinnovas foresight work we work data-driven and identify patterns based on signals – both from our own reports and applications and through analyses from other actors in the world who work with signal acquisition and analysis. We also have qualitative dialogue with actors in the world who are far ahead in foresight work. In this way, we can see when, for example, changed behaviors, new business models or new services are about to emerge. Based on what is most important for the necessary transition we are facing, we select areas where we will create in-depth scenarios.
One way to work with scenarios is through future prototypes. Future prototypes can create engagement, help us identify the kind of society we want, and accelerate progress towards a more sustainable society.
That's why we work with foresight.
The global challenges are great, while societal development is accelerating. In order to be able to make the courageous decisions that are required, we need tools that can help us understand what lies ahead. In order to be able to handle changes and new challenges, Vinnova, just like other actors in the innovation system, needs to become better at understanding the future.
With the help of foresight, Vinnova can make more strategic decisions and be prepared for different possible events in the future, and how to handle them. It is a power we are not utilizing today. Therefore, we want to explore how we as public authority work best with these tools, and how we can collaborate with other actors to get as much exchange as possible.
Forsight wednesday
One Wednesday a month, Vinnova invites you to forsight wednesday. During 50 minutes, you will take part in a number of short reconnaissance sessions - where participants share signals they have perceived, which they believe can develop into something new or transformative. No pre-registration is required. Forsight wednesday takes place via Microsoft Teams.
Go to the calendar to see upcoming Forsight wednesday