

Futures Thinking and Strategy Transformation
Futures Thinking and Strategy Transformation
This interactive futures course is based on the six-pillar approach to Futures Studies. Using methods such as the futures triangle, emerging issues analysis, the futures wheel, the Sarkar game, scenario planning, causal layered analysis, visioning, and backcasting, participants create alternative and preferred futures. Participants work in teams on questions relevant to their work (for example, the futures of organizational structures, ageing and productivity; housing and homelessness, gender equity) in the next two decades.
Case studies are used to illustrate the methods. Participants over the two days learn about themselves, others, their organization, and the changing world. They leave with not just insights as to the futures of x, but as to their own life narratives, and what they need to do in order to realize their visions.
Learning Objectives:
- Understanding and familiarity with methods used to develop alternative futures
- An understanding of emerging issues analysis, the futures wheel, and causal layered analysis
- Capacity to use the future as a tool for strategy and transformation within the organization
- Greater understanding of self, leadership, and futures
Course Content
2 modules · 7 topics01Day 14 topics
- Welcome & Introduction
- The Uses of the Future
- What works in the practice of foresight: nine questions that transform the future
- Anticipatory action learning
02Day 23 topics
- The Six Pillars approach starting with the Futures triangle and Emerging issues analysis
- Macrohistory and the Sarkar game
- Causal layered analysis of the external world and the inner world
Schedule Dates
4 upcoming batches| Batch Dates | Duration | Batch Options | Language | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 November 2026 - 17 November 2026 | 2 Days | 4 hours & 8 hours | English / Arabic | |
| 22 February 2027 - 23 February 2027 | 2 Days | 4 hours & 8 hours | English / Arabic | |
| 24 May 2027 - 25 May 2027 | 2 Days | 4 hours & 8 hours | English / Arabic | |
| 30 August 2027 - 31 August 2027 | 2 Days | 4 hours & 8 hours | English / Arabic |
Can’t find a suitable date? Request a schedule that fits your team.
Request More InformationFAQs
What is the core focus of the Futures Thinking and Strategy Transformation course?
This course equips leaders with advanced foresight methodologies to anticipate emerging trends, disruptions, and uncertainties, and to translate future insights into resilient, adaptive, and actionable business strategies.
Who is the target audience for this programme?
The course is designed for senior executives, strategy leaders, transformation managers, policy makers, consultants, innovation heads, and professionals responsible for long-term planning, organisational change, or enterprise growth.
How does futures thinking differ from traditional strategic planning?
Unlike traditional planning, which is based on historical data and linear forecasts, futures thinking explores multiple plausible futures. It enables organisations to prepare for uncertainty, challenge assumptions, and design strategies that remain robust across changing scenarios.
What strategic frameworks and foresight tools are covered?
Participants will work with advanced frameworks such as horizon scanning, scenario planning, trend impact analysis, systems thinking, backcasting, weak signal detection, and strategic foresight mapping.
How does this course support strategy transformation within organisations?
The course focuses on converting foresight insights into strategic action by aligning future scenarios with organisational capabilities, leadership decisions, operating models, innovation pipelines, and change management initiatives.
Will participants work on real-world strategic challenges?
Yes. The course incorporates applied case studies, scenario workshops, and strategic simulations, allowing participants to address real organisational or industry-specific challenges using futures-based methodologies.
What outcomes can participants expect after completing the course?
Graduates will be able to design future-oriented strategies, anticipate disruption, guide transformation initiatives, influence executive-level decision-making, and position their organisations for sustainable long-term success.
Flexible Training Options to Meet Your Needs
Choose how you learn — live online, in-classroom, at your workplace, or internationally. CounselTrain delivers certified IT training across the UAE in the format that fits your team.
Select the method that best suits your needs.
Online Instructor-Led Training
Learn from the comfort of your workplace or at home through live virtual sessions led by expert trainers.
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Classroom Training
Participate in interactive, face-to-face training in our top 5-star training facilities in Dubai.
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Onsite Training
Learn a customised curriculum in your workplace to ensure the most impact and team participation.
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Overseas Training
Participate in our international training sessions and improve your abilities with world-class instructors.
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