diverge · Strategy, Problem Solving · 90–180 min · 4-20 people · medium energy

Three Horizons Multi-Actor Mapping

Three Horizons Multi-Actor Mapping expands a standard Three Horizons exercise by incorporating diverse stakeholder perspectives to enrich understanding of future possibilities and inform strategic action. This method helps teams broaden their perception of the forces shaping the future and how they might need to relate to other actors to bring about desired transformation.

When to use Three Horizons Multi-Actor Mapping

Use this method when a team, especially one from a single organization, needs to broaden its perspective on the dynamics shaping the future. It's particularly useful for identifying potential collaborations and competitive pressures from various stakeholders.

What it solves

Limited perspective, groupthink, failure to anticipate external forces

How to run Three Horizons Multi-Actor Mapping, step by step

  1. Brainstorm a list of potential actors or stakeholders relevant to the scope. (15 minutes)
  2. Facilitate a voting process to select 3-5 actors for mapping, encouraging participants to choose diverse and interesting perspectives. (15 minutes)
  3. Divide participants into breakout groups, assigning each group an actor to map using the Three Horizons framework (H1, H3, H2). Encourage role-playing to fully inhabit the actor's perspective. (45 minutes)
  4. Each group shares their actor's map and the story behind it with the whole group. (30 minutes)
  5. Combine the H2+ and H3 elements from each actor's map onto separate flip charts. Use silent clustering to identify key themes and label them. Transfer these themes back to the main Three Horizons map. (45 minutes)
  6. Develop a narrative that integrates the combined map, exploring how different perspectives might combine or compete in their journey toward the third horizon. (30 minutes)

Materials needed

  • Flip charts or large paper
  • Sticky notes
  • Markers
  • Hexagon-shaped paper (optional)

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage participants to truly embody the perspective of the chosen actor during the mapping process.
  • Ensure that all perspectives are given equal weight and consideration during the sharing and synthesis phases.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants may struggle to step outside their own perspectives. Remind them to role-play and consider the actor's motivations and constraints.
  • The combined map can become overwhelming. Focus on identifying key themes and patterns rather than trying to capture every detail.

Variations

  • Use pre-defined actor profiles instead of brainstorming to save time.
  • Incorporate quantitative data or research to support the mapping process.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a collaborative whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural to create and share the Three Horizons maps. Ensure remote participants can easily add and move virtual sticky notes.

What it produces

A combined Three Horizons map representing multiple stakeholder perspectives, highlighting areas of convergence and divergence.

Origin

Adapted from H3Uni Resource Library — source

Build a session around Three Horizons Multi-Actor Mapping

METODIC places Three Horizons Multi-Actor Mapping inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

Generate a session with Three Horizons Multi-Actor Mapping · Try METODIC free