Welcome to The Futures Academy

We are living in a highly turbulent, complex and uncertain world. Rapid technological, economic, social and political changes are sweeping through all areas of life. On one hand, humanity faces one of its most threatening challenges arising from environmental degradation and climate change. On the other, multidisciplinary approaches, technological innovations and the development of an information society bring new and exciting possibilities.

The Futures Academy’s approach is underpinned by a basic assumption that the future is not predetermined and can be shaped and prepared for by those who employ a proactive attitude. We see our role as that of creatively exploring possible, probable and preferred futures for Ireland and different aspects of Irish life. We also aim to assist organisations in detecting and analysing present and prospective changes and their implications, exploring possible futures and identifying and formulating decisions and policies that will stand the test of time.

The Futures Academy is an applied research and strategic consultancy organisation that was established in January 2003 in order to promote a fresh and more effective approach towards long-term planning. It is located in the Faculty of Built Environment at the Dublin Institute of Technology, Ireland. Through the application of futures thinking methods, the Academy aims to promote new ways of exploring and preparing for the future.