top of page
  • Writer's pictureDavid Kolb

Quick Tip 16 - Exploring the Future with Design Fiction

Updated: Oct 29, 2023


A visual guide on exploring the future using Design Fiction methodology
Image : David Kolb

In the fast-paced business world, companies are well-versed in tackling the challenges of today. However, the real potential lies in influencing and preparing for the future, and that's where Design Fiction comes into play.


What is Design Fiction?

Design Fiction is an innovative tool that allows individuals and businesses to imagine and engage with futures that may or may not happen. Through this, one can create impactful narratives and prototypes to predict the future and critically explore and assess the implications of new technologies and ideas.


Understanding the Core Components:

  • Narratives: Begin by crafting possible scenarios about upcoming technologies, products, or systems. It provides a foundational blueprint to understand the implications of each.

  • Storytelling Tools: Modern tools such as visual elements, AI-driven language models, and image generators can be instrumental in breathing life into your envisioned future.

  • Innovation: This isn't about the routine, incremental improvements. It's about radical, groundbreaking ideas that can potentially redefine industries.

  • Ethical Considerations: It's essential to ponder novel tech's advantages and pitfalls. Aim for a future that's in harmony with collective human values.

  • Prototyping: Visions should never be static. As the world evolves, so should your envisaged future. Involve your stakeholders in refining and honing your visions.

  • Practicality: Unlike belief, design fiction isn't purely academic. Entities, ranging from startups to conglomerates, can benefit immensely by preemptively exploring their role in the future.

In conclusion, Design Fiction isn't about passive prediction. It's about active, proactive engagement with what lies ahead. By harnessing its potential, businesses can ensure they're not just reacting to the world but actively shaping it.


For more on Design Fiction, check out the excllent book "The Manual of Design Fiction" by Julian Bleecker, Nick Foster, Fabien Girardin and Nicolas Nova, provides a comprehensive, perspective on the approach, mindset, and potential of design fiction.


Check out more Quick Tips and Actionable Insights


Learn More about our boutique consulting firm

Contact David Kolb Consultancy today to find out more about our business consulting, and design thinking coaching built to deliver lasting impact and exceptional value.

bottom of page