Scenario Planning Focal Questions: The Focus of the Focal Question

Scenario Planning Focal Questions: The Focus of the Focal Question

Defining the scenario planning focal question is a crucial part of the scenario planning process. They act as a conceptual boundary. I see focal questions as a key determinant of strategic intent. If an organization isn’t willing to ask a concise question about the future, then they are just as unlikely to precisely define what they want to be in the future.

Focal questions should reflect the following attributes:

• Domain specificity
• Thought-provoking without disenfranchising the team
• Very short so it crystallizes intent
• Reflects the desired outcome: decision, development, exploration or innovation
• Very precise
• Provides boundaries for exploration
• Provides a lens for research and interviews – should answer the question of “what are we solving for?”
• Gives permission to explore beyond the immediate need

For more serious insights on scenario planning, see: Getting to the Matrix.