Incorporating scenarios in a medium-term plan

The incorporation of a scenario matrix into a medium-term plan is a practical example of linking scenarios to planning. De Ruijter Strategy trained an internal OPCW team to use the scenario based strategy methodology for this purpose.

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) published its latest Medium-Term Plan (MTP), covering the period from 2015 – 2019. This plan aims to provide strategic direction in the context of a highly dynamic environment. At the same time, it bears in mind that the end point of the Organisation’s evolution is not yet clear.

The external environment in which the Organisation operates is changing constantly, and at an accelerating pace. The various relevant political, economic, social and technological systems are growing in size and becoming ever more interwoven. In the light of the changing environment and the lack of a clear image of the end state of the OPCW’s evolution, four equally plausible scenarios are discussed in the plan, in order to trigger the necessary resilience and adaptive capacity. The scenarios differ along two key uncertainties:

  • on the one hand the level of conflict and/or chemical weapons use,
  • and on the other hand the resources available.

Read the complete OPCW MTP 2015-2019 here.

If you would like to be informed about De Ruijter’s methodology courses on scenario based strategy or about our services for the development of a strategic plan, please contact us!

“Bad scenario’s don’t exist, only bad preperation.”

Paul de Ruijter

“By using language and visuals, we can create the future today.”

Jolanda van Heijningen

“The future cannot be forecasted, but it can be foreseen.”

Renate Kenter

“History shows us how unpredictable the future can be.”

Friso van Nimwegen

“The complexity of the future requires multidimensional thinking, anticipating and acting.”

Sharda Tewari

“Being well prepared is better than hoping that things will work out.”

Reinier Hattink

“Conducting research about the future is the greatest thing there is.”

Femke Pennink

“Without having a clear strategic goal, you are the puppet of circumstances.”

Kwint Kramer

“To be able to think about the future, you need to have the figures in order.”

Jannie Pruimers-Lanenga

“Discovering connections between data and trends remains fascinating.”

Iris Lijkendijk

“”One cannot drive with just the rearview mirror; look ahead and overtake! That’s the essence of scenario planning.””

Aryzo Arrindell