Methodology

Phase 1. Reset

The 'Reset' phase consists of a continuous redefinition of our world view. We are all conditioned from the moment we were born. For trend watching is essential to identify trends with an open as possible mindset. That is why this phase is essential within the future scanning- and trend watching process of Extend Limits. A world in transition asks to be viewed with a new fresh and open mindset.

The Reset phase ensures that, we from Extend Limits, do not seek confirmation of our own world view and opinions. This means that employees at Extend Limits have a standard attitude to expect the unexpected and seemingly impossible to be as open minded as possible. We challenge the status quo on a daily basis.

Phase 2. Research

With Research Extend Limits gathers relevant and timely information based on the reset phase. Extend Limits researches trend signals that indicate a development that has lasting significance. In other words: Extend Limits conducts research on fundamental trends and not on hype or fads.

Extend Limits uses the latest digital analysis tools to achieve a continious and real-time information flow that monitors and analyzes current and future developments. Extend Limits research also makes extensive use of expert reviews and contacts in the scientific world. From our network we visit a variety of organizations, governments and institutions. Extend Limits works with an extensive network of specialists and experts on a variety of subjects.

Trend research is an important step in which data and information is segmented based trend signals. This means that we examine to what extent the information underpins an existing trend, a counter development (trend) or indicates or suggests a new trend. In this process experience, knowledge and feedback loops with our knowledge network have an important role.

Phase 3. Rethink

The Rethink stage involves examining counter developments. In this phase, the used information is being challenged. We look for counterdevelopments which may in fact  be less visible but ultimately more dominant and therefore more interesting for organisations. The Rethink phase is known for the critical and challenging approach which actually can been seen as an extra critical step before Extend Limits designates a specific trend. In the phase the network of experts known by Extend Limits plays an important role. The Rethink phase also looks at the past to see what we can learn before the assessments of a trend's impact, maturity stage and development path.

Stage 4. Reshape

In this phase, meaning, impact, risk, appearance and phase of the trend is determined. This is the most important step for organizations. In this phase Extend Limits materializes the observed trend. This implies that the impact of a trend is translated to the means for society, a particular organization or industry, government and so forth. The trend is made tangible and concrete. At this stage we do a lot of visualisation, make scenario's and publish a lot. All is about the impact of a specific trend.

Phase 5. Refine

Refine is an essential step for any organization that is active in the field of forward thinking and trend watching. The impact of trends really becomes visible as it can be placed in the larger set of change. Therefore Extend Limits works with transition statements. This will set trends in the overall picture of the changing world and makes trends importance and impact more feasible.

Essential part of the Refine stage is that a trend comes in a continuous stream of assessments. This means that Extend Limits continuously assesses how trends evolve and what the consequences are of oppose developments.