In this section we describe various futuring techniques. These techniques can be used individually or combined, depending on the purpose of the exercise, the composition of the group or the availability of time and resources. We have included ancient techniques such as scrying alongside established strategic foresight and scenario planning methods. The latter have emerged from the traditions of the former, although in professional circles this mystical ancestry tends to be somewhat frowned upon. While none of these techniques can truly predict the future, each of them can provide effective exploratory, divinatory or strategic tools in the right context. The challenge for the practitioner is to know which technique to apply when, as if choosing a vantage point from which to look at the present. In the description of each technique we offer suggestions as to the context and applicability, but most of all we invite the reader to find a suitable combinations of techniques and/or develop their own as they see fit.

• Making it (inter)personal
• Observing and mapping
• Scanning and forecasting
• Speculation and visioning
• Incasting
• Retrocasting
• Visualising and prototyping
• Experiencing and rehearsing
• Reflecting and anticipating
• Dynamic modelling, data analysis and human judgement
• Hosting