Macro-Design · 1-3 day intensive workshops or multi-week strategic programs

The Six Pillars Model of Futures Thinking

A comprehensive strategic framework used to explore alternative futures and challenge the underlying worldviews that shape them. It provides a structured methodology for moving from surface-level trend analysis to deep systemic and metaphorical transformation.

When to use The Six Pillars Model of Futures Thinking

Ideal for long-term strategic planning, organizational change initiatives, and policy development where stakeholders need to break free from 'business as usual' thinking.

How The Six Pillars Model of Futures Thinking works

Facilitators can use this as a scaffolding for a multi-stage strategic workshop, dedicating specific modules to each pillar to move a group from current state mapping to actionable future visions.

Phases of The Six Pillars Model of Futures Thinking

  1. Mapping: Map the past, present and future to see where the issue comes from and where it could go. Groups draw a shared history and use the futures triangle: pull of the future, push of the present, weight of the past.
  2. Anticipating: Spot emerging issues and weak signals that could disrupt the picture before they become trends. Participants scan for signals and discuss their possible consequences.
  3. Timing: Look at the patterns and shape of change over time, such as cycles, stages or linear progress. The facilitator asks which theories of change participants hold and what they imply.
  4. Deepening: Go below the surface with Causal Layered Analysis: litany, systemic causes, worldview and myth or metaphor. Groups unpack an issue layer by layer and question its deeper narratives.
  5. Creating Alternatives: Develop alternative futures, for example with scenarios, to open up options beyond the expected one. Participants build contrasting scenarios and discuss their implications.
  6. Transforming: Narrow toward a preferred future and work out how to get there, using visioning and backcasting. Participants describe the desired future and trace steps back to the present.

Key principles

  • The future is not fixed but plural (Alternative Futures)
  • Depth is required for lasting change (moving beyond surface trends)
  • Agency is found in the alignment of worldviews and metaphors
  • Systemic transformation requires addressing both data and myth

Best for

  • Strategic Foresight
  • Leadership Development
  • Systems Thinking

Considerations

  • Requires significant cognitive effort from participants to move into the 'Deepening' phase
  • May meet resistance when challenging long-held organizational myths

Attribution & sources

Developed by Sohail Inayatullah

Primary source

Design a session with The Six Pillars Model of Futures Thinking

METODIC builds a complete The Six Pillars Model of Futures Thinking-based session — methods, timing, worksheets, and facilitator guides — in minutes.

Try METODIC free