Future Search
Future Search is a large group planning method that brings together 40 to 80 people from across an entire system to find common ground and commit to action. Over two to three days, participants explore their shared past, map present trends, create ideal future scenarios, and then agree on what they have in common before making concrete plans.
✓ Created by former KPMG & McKinsey consultants
What You'll Achieve with the Future Search Workshop
Real outcomes that transform your team
Achieving stakeholder alignment on a shared vision and actionable plans.
Building trust and collaboration among diverse participants.
Creating measurable action commitments with defined timelines.
When to Use the Future Search Workshop
Perfect for these situations and team challenges
Aligning diverse stakeholders from various departments for a common strategic initiative.
Addressing complex community issues that require input from multiple sectors.
How the Future Search Workshop Works
A step-by-step breakdown of the workshop process
1Step 1: Focus on the Past
Participants explore their shared history by populating timelines with significant events, fostering a collective context.
2Step 2: Focus on the Present (External Trends)
Groups create a mind map of current trends affecting the topic, identifying key external forces shaping their reality.
3Step 3: Focus on the Present (Stakeholder Perspectives)
Stakeholder groups discuss their current actions, achievements, and regrets, sharing insights with the larger group to build understanding.
4Step 4: Ideal Future Scenarios
In mixed groups, participants envision and creatively present their ideal future, detailing the changes they wish to see.
Key Topics Covered in the Future Search Workshop
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