Strategic Foresight

Programme Description

Over the last years, governments have recognised the need for innovative tools to identify, prevent, or mitigate emerging risks across various areas: from the pandemics to climate disruptions to technological evolution, geopolitical shocks and hybrid threats.

Agility and resilience have become increasingly important, requiring integration with new approaches such as horizon scanning, stress-testing legislation for resilience and strategic foresight. In particular, strategic foresight involves anticipating future scenarios by analysing trends, uncertainties, and possibilities, enabling proactive planning and decision-making to navigate forthcoming changes effectively.

It is crucial for organisations to adopt a proactive approach to foresee and prepare for future uncertainties.

Several countries and international entities employ strategic foresight to foresee global challenges. The EU's Strategic Foresight Network, for instance, guides policies on sustainability, security, and economy, showcasing how strategic foresight can support informed decision-making and planning.

On the individual level, professionals require the ability to anticipate future developments, make informed decisions amidst uncertainties, foster innovation, and adapt swiftly. Developing a proactive mindset, honing analytical skills, and embracing adaptability is key to navigate evolving environments successfully.

This executive training equips leaders with strategic foresight tools to tackle these challenges, guiding proactive and well-informed decisions for the future.

The course delves into the theoretical foundations of strategic foresight and its practical application in public policy through case studies from EU institutions and in-depth scenario-building workshops.

 

Programme structure

The first day (online) will introduce the concept of strategic foresight, highlighting its distinctions from other concepts and presenting its theoretical framework.

The second and third day (residential), involve intensive workshops on scenario-building as a primary strategic foresight technique, featuring practical and interactive sessions with fellow participants.

On the fourth day (residential), the case studies from European institutions and international organisations will demonstrate the application of strategic foresight in various contexts.

The programme also includes social activities and networking opportunities with participants and experts.

The full programme will be available soon.

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Learning outcomes

By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:

• Apply strategic foresight tools and methodologies to specific challenges and environments;
• Create and analyse diverse future scenarios;
• Identify and interpret emerging trends impacting industries or sectors;
• Anticipate risks and develop strategies for successful risk management;
• Develop a mindset that encourages innovative approaches to problem-solving;
• Make informed decisions amid uncertain and changing environments;
• Formulate and implement long-term strategies aligned with anticipated future changes;
• Engage stakeholders effectively to navigate and implement future-oriented strategies.

 

Learning methods

• Online and in-person lectures and presentations by industry experts and practitioners;
• Interactive sessions and discussions with instructors;
• Group work and role-play with scenario-building;
• Practical application of strategic foresight tools and methodologies to specific challenges or contexts to strengthen learning;
• Peer-to-peer learning and experience sharing;
• Case studies from European and international institutions.

 

Who should attend

• Public sector leaders: government officials, policymakers, and civil servants in leadership positions.
• Policy advisors/analysts: professionals involved in policy research, analysis, and development.
• NGO managers: leaders in non-profit organisations focused on societal governance and development.
• Regulatory compliance officers: individuals ensuring adherence to governance standards and regulations.
• Ethics and compliance managers focusing on ethical governance and corporate compliance within organisations.
• Public administration postgraduate students: individuals studying governance, seeking practical foresight skills for their future roles in governance and administration.
• Strategy and innovation managers: professionals responsible for long-term planning and strategy development.
• Business development managers focusing on market trends and future business opportunities.
• Consultants and advisors offering strategic advice to diverse clients in ever-evolving industries.
• Project managers planning and executing projects within dynamic and uncertain environments.