In brief
Futuring (future exploration) helps you make better strategic decisions today by exploring possible futures. In this free online Lunch & Learn of 45 minutes, you will discover what futuring is, why it is relevant now for the cultural sector, and how DEN works with it. There is plenty of room for questions. An ideal stepping stone to the Futuring in-depth workshop on September 24 and the Community meet-up on October 8.
What is futuring?
Futuring, or future exploration in Dutch, is the structured exploration of possible futures to prepare your organization for them now. There is no single predictable future, but you can explore multiple conceivable futures. This way, you make choices that hold up across different scenarios and are prepared for unexpected outcomes.
Why futuring is important now for the cultural sector
A new generation is growing up in a fully digitalized world. Many expect a personal, interactive experience when shopping online, using streaming platforms — and also when visiting museums, theaters, archives, and venues. Organizations that adapt to this now will be stronger in the future. Futuring makes this uncertain future manageable: it helps you let go of the fear of the unknown and see opportunities instead.
„Even in a scenario that initially seemed dystopian to me, we eventually discovered opportunities and solutions during the conversation. When you let go of the fear of the future, you see a beautiful path.”
What can you expect?
In 45 minutes, we will introduce you to the basics of futuring. You'll get an overview of the method and see examples of how cultural organizations are already applying it. Afterward, there will be time to ask questions and engage in discussions.
What will you learn in these 45 minutes?
What futuring is.
Why looking ahead is especially important now for your audience and offerings.
How DEN works with future scenarios and what they look like for the cultural sector.
What first step you can take to apply futuring in your organization.
Who is this Lunch & Learn for?
For anyone working in the cultural sector who is curious about the future of their audience: from directors to policy, audience, and program staff at museums, theaters, archives, libraries, and festivals. No prior knowledge is required — this is the starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is futuring?Hide explanationShow explanation
Futuring, also known as future exploration, is a method for translating trends and signals into possible future scenarios. You don't predict a single future but explore multiple ones, allowing you to make decisions today that hold up over time.
What does the Lunch & Learn cost?Hide explanationShow explanation
Nothing. This online session is free and intended as an accessible introduction to the topic.
How long does the session last?Hide explanationShow explanation
45 minutes, during lunch. This includes time for questions.
Do I need prior knowledge of futuring?Hide explanationShow explanation
No. This Lunch & Learn is the starting point. No prior knowledge is required.
What is the difference between the Lunch & Learn, the workshop, and the meet-up on futuring?Hide explanationShow explanation
The Lunch & Learn is a short, free introduction. In the workshop 'Futuring: Ready for the audience of the future' (opens in new tab)of half a day, you will apply the method yourself and work with DEN's future scenarios for your own organization. Want to brainstorm about futuring with colleagues from the sector? Join the DEN Community meet-up on futuring on October 8! (opens in new tab)
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