Evaluation of futures frequency method: Approach and main results

Abstract The evaluation reported in this article explores the impacts and adaptability of Futures Frequency, a workshop method for futures thinking. The method is intended to improve participants' abilities to imagine alternative futures and initiate actions toward preferred futures, thereby enhancing futures thinking and change‐making skills. The evaluation framework is rooted in the approach of developmental evaluation with the goal of identifying practices that support the dissemination of futures thinking in society. The evaluation framework comprises a multidimensional evaluation of impacts, participatory forums for joint evaluation and learning, and diverse quantitative and qualitative data. Findings reveal clear indications of Futures Frequency influencing individuals’ thought processes and inspiring varied courses of actions, particularly at the individual level. Participants showed improved futures thinking skills and a greater ability to question assumptions about the future. At the community level, improvements were seen in questioning the future prospects of organizations, and at the societal level there was evidence of greater involvement of different groups in debates about the future. The study underscores the value of stimulating conversations in Futures Frequency workshops and the difficulty of maintaining interest in futures thinking. Integrating the method with an organization's ongoing activities was suggested as a way to promote sustained engagement. As the study was mainly aimed at expert workshops, further research is needed on the suitability of the Futures Frequency method for different groups and its potential to support forward‐looking debate across social groups.