Transformative Scenario Planning

Working Together to Change the Future

By: Adam Kahane

Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

People who are trying to solve tough economic, social, or environmental problems often find themselves frustratingly stuck. They cannot solve their problems in their current context; the larger system within which they are operating is too unstable or unfair or unsustainable. They cannot transform this system on their own or by working only with their friends or colleagues; the system is too complex to be grasped or shifted by any one person or organization or sector. And the actors whose cooperation would be necessary to transform the system don't understand or agree with or trust each other enough to work together.

This book describes a powerful new methodology for dealing with this increasingly common set of challenges. Transformative Scenario Planning is a creative and constructive way for actors from across a whole system to work together to transform that system. It is a way for them to get unstuck and to move forward on solving their tough problems.

Transformative Scenario Planning takes the well-established methodology of adaptive scenario planning-rigorously constructing a set of stories of alternative possible futures-and turns it on its head. It uses scenarios not only to understand and adapt to the future but also to challenge and change it. It offers a way for us to transform ourselves and our relationships with one another and thereby to transform the systems of which we are part.

©2012 Adam Kahane (P)2012 Berrett-Koehler Publishers

Great coverage with cases. Will refer to it often.

The narrator was great and still sounded clear even at a fast speed. The scope covered was significant. I will need more research on how to replicate the approach, though.

Worth your money

The speaker was amazing , the examples given were amazing. Social system theory is well explained in tougher and turbulent times.

Stories & Narratives are powerful for transformative futures

Especially powerful as I was listening to this from a South African perspective, yet the potential on a global level huge.

This is a book everyone should listen to at least twice & if we could get this kind of engagement early, in the lives of our children, the reduction in world conflict and possibilities become infinite.

Great book on scenario planning

I like the clear focus on the transformative aspect. Many great examples. South Africa, Columbia, etc. Though, the examples are mostly national, there's clear application for business.