Using radar diagrams: three immediate applications
Analyzing value structures in existing images of the future;
articulating and designing value structures previous to creating images of the future;
identifying, analyzing, and comparing value structures of both the consultant (the futures researcher) and the client.
Notes:
Please note in the first two points of this slide, I am using the meta-term ”images of the future,” which encompasses both exploratory images – scenarios – AND inspirational images – visions. Radar diagrams, or similar visual approaches to self-anchoring evaluative scales – may assist in analyzing and comparing value structures in either scenarios of possible futures, or visions articulating preferred futures.
In addition to analyzing value structures of existing images, radar diagrams may also assist in the conscious design of value structures both for scenarios of possible futures, and for visions of preferred futures. In visioning, in particular, they are a useful tool first for organizing and clustering values, and second for comparing values among the members of the community engaged in the visioning process.
Finally, in any professional relationship between a futures researcher/facilitator and a client or clients, the issue of value bias arises. Radar diagrams can help clarify where bias might emerge on either side during a research or planning project.