Finding the Patterns That Matter

Good foresight requires that we pay attention; tuning in to subtle signals, shifting trends, and larger drivers to consider how they may shape future possibilities. Today we're taking a look at two tools that help us with this exploration: Horizon Scanning and Pattern-making.

Horizon Scanning helps you to identify and collect the qualitative and quantitative information that may impact the future you're interested in. This is the critical and required research phase of any foresight effort.

💡Quick tip: Use STEEP to check you’re looking at things from all angles. If one area feels thin, dive back into it. This keeps your scanning broad and balanced.

Need details or a refresher? Check out our article and video here.

Pattern-making is when your research starts to shift from individual data points to meaningful insights: connect the dots, look for hidden patterns, and examine what stories these patterns might tell together. (We love Miro or good old sticky notes and a blank wall for this!)

💡Quick Tip: Examine how the data interact. How do they relate? Are they in sync or at odds? Are there underlying shifts in values that reveal connections?