Envisioning a positive future is a far more difficult assignment than describing existing problems or issues. The goal of a Future Vision is to generate vivid descriptions of what the organization would ideally look like at a specified future date. In doing so, an organization looks not only at its areas for improvement but at its current strengths.  An effective means of constructing a future vision is to interview a cross-section of the entire organization, asking participants to adhere to two major guidelines: the described future must help the organization meet the challenges it will likely face two year--or 5 or 10 years--from now and the future must be at least 50% plausible. In past projects, we have focused the visioning process around six key elements: structure, technology and processes, teamwork, information, rewards and development, and roles. One of the products of the visioning process is a Future Vision document, describing the organization of the future in detail. This document is then used in subsequent planning and strategy sessions as a check to ensure the organization is moving forward toward its goals. Likewise, the Future Vision is updated and changed as the organization faces unforeseen challenges or opportunities.

DEVELOP THE VISION FOR THE FUTURE Define the desired future   OUTCOME: To create a vivid description of the future that clarifies where the organization is headed.

Why is it important to have a vision of the future? Read "The Organization of the Future."

[1. Organization Assessment - 2. Future Vision - 3. New Role for Managers
4. Change Pathway and Points of Implementation - 5. Internal Consulting Capability
6. Ongoing Feedback and Development Planning Mechanisms - 7. Team Knowledge]