Scenario building is a pedagogical method, a way of working, to bring out concrete ideas and visions. The method has a way of working with a clear framework that creates both freedom and security that also uses desire and creativity as a driving force.
The method aims for all participants to find a common platform where they can pick up and realize their ideas together.
A successful scenario-building workshop is a good starting point for further action and often leads to the formation of working groups that work further with solutions and new development processes.
There are different ways to implement a scenario-building workshop. To implement the method, moderators who are trained in the method are needed. The main principles of the method are participatory governance, democracy and structure. Everyone’s ideas and opinions are respectfully heard, discussed and incorporated into a common context.
The method is based on having an overarching theme, a subject or a condition that you want to change or develop. This theme is then processed in different ways in phases that go from problem inventories to concrete decisions in action plans about what needs to be done, when it is to be done, sometimes also how it is to be done and by whom. Various work materials are used, and support questions are available throughout the process.
Scenario building is strictly organized in terms of time and it is important that set times are kept.
The method is based on the active participation of the participants and that they have the opportunity to be present during the entire process. It is an advantage to have a mixed group of politicians, civil servants, citizens and other stakeholders.
The number of participants should be maximized to approx. 25 people.
It may look a little different how to get participants to the meeting. Either you can have an open meeting where you can register or you invite selected participants. A combination may also be suitable.
A large room with a lot of wall space is needed
At least a full day. Many conduct the meeting during a holiday so that many have the opportunity to participate.
Simple to understand and implement.
Participants often enjoy the method.
Not everyone dares as it goes very quickly