This article covers the research study on promoting the utilization of "Future Design" commissioned by the Ministry of Finance to Japan Research Institute, Limited, completed in March 2025, and the various tools and materials created as deliverables.
Key Points
Development of Future Design Practical Tools
- Created "Future Society Prediction Cards" (PDF: 1,455KB) as discussion facilitation tools for imagining future society
- Provided "Conversation Cards for Ancient People's Future Imagination" (PDF: 1,046KB) offering methods to think about the future from historical perspectives
- Developed practical toolkits usable for specific workshop operations
- Structured materials in an easy-to-understand format for use without specialized knowledge
Provision of Workshop Management Support Materials
- Created "First-time Future Design Workshop Facilitation Materials" (PowerPoint format)
- Detailed facilitation procedures and time allocation for facilitators
- Included specific examples of questions to activate participant discussions
- Designed with high versatility for use in both online and face-to-face settings
Outcome Visualization and Sharing Methods
- Established systems for systematically recording opinions and ideas from workshops using "Message Visualization Sheets" (PowerPoint format)
- Built mechanisms for effectively organizing and sharing discussion results
- Utilized visual tools to promote consensus-building among participants
- Designed to ensure outcome sharing within organizations and continuity for future sessions
Introductory Materials for Public Awareness
- Created "Really First-time Future Design" (PDF: 209KB) as introductory explanatory materials for beginners
- Clearly explained basic concepts and significance of Future Design
- Budget Bureau Research Division, Ministry of Finance serves as contact point for consultation on material usage (extension 5041)
- Structured with practical content assuming use by local governments and various organizations
The article introduces initiatives to develop comprehensive toolkits and support systems so that more organizations can practice the "Future Design" method, which incorporates future generations' perspectives into current policy decisions.