Three Horizons

What is it?

The Three Horizons framework was developed by Bill Sharpe as a tool for thinking about the future. It helps individuals and organizations explore different future scenarios and plan for change.

The framework divides future possibilities into three "horizons" or time frames:

The purpose of the Three Horizons framework is to help people recognize and plan for the different stages of change that might unfold. Horizon 1 represents the status quo, Horizon 2 is where things begin to shift, and Horizon 3 is where the future could look radically different. By analyzing these horizons, organizations and individuals can better navigate the complexity of change, recognize opportunities, and prepare for future challenges.

How to use it?

Map the situation (Horizon 1)

Envision radical futures (Horizons 3)

Adapting the practice

The Three Horizons framework can be adapted to reflect a perspective based on the Past, Present, and Future to better understand the evolution of systems or organizations over time.

Past (Horizon 1)

Present (Horizon 2)

Future (Horizon 3)

Examples in arts and culture

COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on gig workers in the arts and culture sector, affecting how they work, their income, and the opportunities available to them. By applying the adapted Three Horizons framework, we can understand the evolution of gig work in the arts and culture industry and how it might shape the future.

Past (Horizon 1)
Present (Horizon 2)
Future (Horizon 3)

Climate Crisis

The climate crisis is one of the defining challenges of our time, and youth in the arts and culture sector are increasingly playing a significant role in raising awareness and driving change. By applying the adapted Three Horizons framework, we can explore how young people in the arts have engaged with the climate crisis and how they may shape future cultural movements related to climate action.

Past (Horizon 1)
Present (Horizon 2)
Future (Horizon 3)


Revision #8
Created 11 December 2024 08:49:14 by ArtsPond
Updated 11 December 2024 11:12:20 by ArtsPond