2.1 Why is it important to use foresight methods and to evaluate emerging technologies?
Foresight methods and emerging technologies
Why is it important to use foresight methods?
- Thinking about desired futures is the first step to shaping it.
- Identifying and exploring future challenges and opportunities gives a competitive advantage.
- Becoming prepared for the future:
- Plan for success.
- Identify threats before they become a crisis.
- Enhance resilience.
- Improving corporate agility.
- Appearing more innovative and forward thinking in the eyes of the costumer.
Why is it important to evaluate emerging technologies?
Information on emerging technologies can give:
- An early hint on where to prioritize R&D budget.
- Indications for decisions in early development stages that can influence future functionality, cost, and environmental consequences.
- Insights into new policies for societal, economic, ethical, and legal considerations.
- Indicators of the potential impact of emerging technologies, allowing future risks to be assessed.
- Arguments to convince stakeholders of adapting to technological changes.