Horizon scanning as a methodology is not about predicting the future as one might think at first glance.
It is a systematic process that focuses on detecting early signs of any potential change that may have a significant impact on our business either as an opportunity or as a threat.
The result of the horizon scan will help decision makers in the process of strategic planning to consider, reflect, propose and adopt ways to take advantage of or alleviate these changes and ensure the most positive outcome for their organization.
Horizon scanning provides a holistic view of future trends: what is coming, what changes will benefit our organization and which may disrupt it.
The overarching purpose of horizon scanning is to provide timely awareness of what is new or what is changing that may affect our context in order to identify the risks as well as the opportunities these phenomena may create.
