Framing scenario thinking in a mode of futures by design inquiry

Abstract

In Transdisciplinary Design inquiry, the conceptual and ideational need to be clarified when relational and qualitative methodologies are enacted. This is crucial concerning complex, emergent, and urgent matters of climate change, sustainability, and collective citizenship. Theoretically, this paper covers conceptualizing scenarios as part of future-orientated envisioning and sits between design, anticipation, and foresight studies. We then propose three scenario thinking devices based on initial literature review and conceptual positioning to engage scenario thinking. The paper proposes a reframing of scenario thinking by design research as a means to inform clearer scenario building for long term sustainable collaborative futures. Methodologically, we draw on explorative and compositional methodology to reposition scenario thinking as anticipatory scenario building. The three scenario thinking devices are work-in-progress and will be investigated in the field through a series of ongoing research activities.