The techniques in this section are designed to broaden and deepen insight into the present situation, context or environment that we wish to explore. These techniques may help distinguish constants from variables and move between micro and macro scales. They can help distil key questions, factors, facts and assumptions about the situations from which futures arise. These techniques can be useful outside of futures practice as well, especially in situations where things may be too complex or messy to untangle in an unstructured conversation.

• KPUU Framework: mapping what is known, presumed, unknown and unknowable
• Mapping and diagrams: affinity map, mind map, etc.
• Situation so far (mapping past and present)
• Pace Layering (Brand)
• Concentric circles (Fixed – Micro – Macro)
• Uncovering Causality (CLA)
• Key factors (internal variables)
• SPES Group Invention (aka. post-its and clustering and dots)
• stakeholder mapping: understanding who is involved and how to reach them