STRATEGIC FORESIGHT TRAINING CLASSES, COURSES & PROGRAMS

Strategic foresight training classes, courses and programs come in mighty handy amid growing uncertainty. Speaking to the ability to anticipate and prepare for future scenarios, the skill is becoming increasingly crucial in our rapidly changing world. And so the best strategic foresight training programs come into play as organizations and individuals seek to address uncertainty. We look at the different options available.

1. Academic Programs
Many universities now offer degree programs or specialized courses in strategy planning. Top strategic foresight training classes and courses range from full master’s degrees to certificate programs and can be found in business schools, public policy departments, and interdisciplinary programs. Examples include the University of Houston’s MS in Foresight and Singularity University’s programs on exponential technologies and future trends.

2. Corporate Training Programs
Large consulting firms and consultancy companies offer tailored training programs for corporate clients. Consultants often focus on applying foresight techniques to specific industry challenges and can range from short workshops to long-term engagements. Firms like Deloitte, KPMG, and famous futurist keynote speaker Scott Steinberg’s FutureProof Strategies provide such services.

3. Online Courses and MOOCs
Serviceslike Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn offer online courses in foresight and futures thinking. The best strategic foresight training classes range from introductory level to more advanced topics and often feature content from leading universities and practitioners. Solutions provide a flexible, accessible option for individuals looking to develop new skills.

4. Professional Certification Programs
Organizations like the aforementioned FutureProof Strategies, Association of Professional Futurists (APF) and the World Future Society offer professional certification programs. New strategic foresight training options typically involve a combination of coursework, projects, and examinations, providing a recognized credential in the field.

5. Workshops and Seminars
Leading futurists and strategy practitioners offer short-term workshops and seminars. Offerings can be excellent for quick skill-building and networking. Experts such as famous futurist Scott Steinberg focus on specific foresight tools like scenario planning, trend analysis, or horizon scanning.

6. In-house Training Programs
Some large organizations have developed their own in-house strategic foresight training programs. Options are tailored to the specific needs and context of the organization and often involve developing a cadre of internal foresight practitioners.

7. Foresight Conferences and Events
While not formal training per se, conferences like the World Futures Conference or the International Conference on Foresight offer opportunities to learn about the latest foresight methodologies and network with practitioners.

8. Experiential Learning Programs
Some innovative programs offer immersive, experiential learning in foresight like simulations, role-playing exercises, or even future labs where participants engage with emerging technologies and trends firsthand.

9. Executive Education Programs
Many business schools offer executive education programs that include elements of the practice. Emerging strategic foresight training classes and courses are short, intensive programs designed for mid-career professionals and executives.

10. Mentorship and Coaching
Some experienced futurists offer one-on-one mentorship or coaching services. A personalized approach can be particularly valuable for those looking to apply foresight in specific contexts.

The choice of strategic foresight training depends on individual needs, career goals, and learning preferences. For some, a comprehensive academic program might be most suitable, while others might benefit more from short, focused workshops or online courses. Regardless of the format, developing strategy mapping skills can provide a significant advantage in navigating the complexities of our rapidly evolving world.