Outlines an approach for preparing and using futures scenarios that has been successful in the formulation of long-range plans and policies. How to construct a scenario and how to draw implications from the scenarios are discussed. (AM)

By thinking about and trying to predict the future, we force ourselves to articulate our feelings and thoughts about that future. A technique using intuitive and logical thinking based on right brain-left brain differences is proposed to aid in decision making by both groups and individuals. (Author/IS)

Futures research, like anthropology, is an undertaking that can change the researcher by bringing to light doubts and questions most people prefer to ignore. A futurist discusses his intellectual evolution since he started to study the future 17 years ago, sharing insights that came to him along the way. (RM)

Key assumptions, ideology, and biases of future studies are critiqued in an attempt to enhance the field's applicability and impact throughout the world. (RM)

Effective decision-making depends upon true communication among decision-makers. Futurists should develop fundamental thinking skills such as the ability to formulate good questions, consider alternative points of view, and set short- and long-range goals. By example and through education, the "tools of futuristics" can be employed usefully in…

The Hawaii Judiciary has been using futures research to help identify the legal aspects of emerging social trends. Emerging issues analysis works because the life cycle of issues can be seen as following certain patterned phases. Describes the process of this research and its results. (Author/CS)

A survey of over 50 service organizations, private firms, and government agencies revealed that there is a growing interest in foresight and related activities. Their attempts to predict change, the mechanisms used, costs, information sources, dissemination of results, benefits gained, disadvantages, evaluation procedures, and utilization of such…