What is Visioning and Backcasting?
This tool helps define and develop a future vision for a food system solution adapted to a specific context. We then work backwards from that vision to uncover the necessary steps to realize it.
Why do we use this tool?
To think on the long-term and develop shared future visions
To better articulate and build mutual understanding of different futures visions, identifying both commonalities and differences
To translate systems thinking into actionable pathways by connecting dots between sectorial elements & actors, and by identifying concrete priority actions for collaboration
To anticipating potential unintended consequences
To set up priorities for coordinated actions, and promote coherent policies & practices
To root food systems in a real-life, complex context (e.g. those of consumers, producers), helping to make a personal and practical connection
When is it useful?
This tool is particularly useful when planning a long-term intervention, as it helps to co-develop a pathway for reaching a defined outcome. It creates a shared space for aligning goals, prioritizing actions, and designing collaborative strategies among diverse stakeholders.
How do we do this?
Use a concrete setting & entry point as the starting focus
Tailor the process to specific goals while applying systems thinking facilitation principles
Engage stakeholders in co-creating visions and backcasting from those to identify strategic steps and leverage points
Examples of our work
