Becoming More Curious About the Future: ReadySetFuture_

This paper shows how a tool that explore future possibilities, ReadySetFuture_, helped a major automotive maker understand how shifts in consumer values may impact the features and use cases that surprise and delight future vehicle consumers in the year 2033. It contrasts two common mindsets when thinking about the future: a there is no alternative (TINA) mindset and a there are many alternatives (TAMA) mindset. The future contains numerous alternatives and possibilities, ripe for exploration and proactive planning. ReadySetFuture_ was included in a series of workshops to cultivate a heightened sense of curiosity about future possibilities. The paper examines the planning and development stages of ReadySetFuture_ and highlights key findings that demonstrates how the tool enhances users’ curiosity. The paper details the design, development, and testing processes, emphasizing its approaches to evoke curiosity. Additionally, it discusses the strategic integration of various curiosity-invoking techniques, which contributes to a more extensive approach to futures thinking. The game’s success in generating over 100 scenarios across workshops highlights its effectiveness in encouraging participants to explore diverse perspectives on potential futures.