FUTURE SEARCH

A Future Search Conference is a highly effective large group planning intervention that enables diverse people with a stake in an organization or community to plan for their future.

In a Future Search, people seek common ground, focus on the future rather than resolve old problems, generate broad commitment to a common goal, identify creative strategies and take responsibility for action.

Why use the Future Search Methodology?

A Future Search enables an organization to learn more about themselves from every angle. Representatives of the whole system (internal and external stakeholders) are brought into the room to explore common ground with others and to release and build on their creative energies. This leads to future projects that would not otherwise become possible. People discover mutual values, innovative ideas, commitment and support. The Future Search process interrupts the tendency to repeat old patterns - railroading, fighting, running away, complaining, blaming or waiting for others to fix things and it gives people a chance to express their highest ideals.

How does it work?

For two to three days participants work in stakeholder groups, mixed groups and in plenary to complete the following tasks:

• Review the past
• Appreciate the present
• Design the future
• Confirm common ground
• Create action planning groups
• Move into action

For more information about our design process of a Future Search click here or visit Future Search at

http://www.futuresearch.net/index.cfm