Scenarios^SM

Scenarios are stories that help us focus our attention on the future and help us understand how our decisions might be played out. Unlike traditional business forecasting or market research, scenarios present alternative images; they don't merely extrapolate the trends of the present. Their power comes from systematic evaluation of alternative environments, challenges, and opportunities that a group may face in the future. In addition, after scenarios are created, they are used in a continuing "strategic conversation" for consideration as the future unfolds. They are living stories that evolve over time as new information comes to light and new conversations are held. Scenarios allow a manager to say, "I am prepared for whatever happens."