Scotland will change regardless of referendum outcome. Are you ready?

Scotland and the world are changing and they will continue to do so whatever happens with the referendum vote this September. The status quo will not continue – a no vote, for example, doesn’t mean there will be no change.

From demographics to technology, the environment to the economy, nothing will remain as it is.

The reality is, it’s not what happens in the next 2-3 years - however important that is - it’s about the long-term and what Scotland in particular the third sector will look like 5-10 years and more from now. What does the future hold? The questions this poses are many, varied and sometimes just too scary to think about. From demographics to technology, the environment to the economy, nothing will remain as it is. Do we know how we can mould these changes? Do we know how we can adapt to them? Preparing for the impact of major changes ahead is difficult, at the moment many third sector organisations have their heads down working desperately to sustain their organisation within the current environment. In my view, it is the key role of senior management – chief executives, directors - to think and look to the long-term future of their organisation and sector. Not to think about the future landscape is simply irresponsible. If you don’t make plans you won’t survive long enough to reach the future. Do you know where you are going? Do you know how you are going to get there? The private sector is much more used to using the concept of scenario planning and futurologists to think about the future and their potential options. The time has come for Scotland’s third sector to engage in thinking that looks at the bigger picture, the future, and how best to get there successfully. Change is inevitable – are you ready for it? Come along to The Gathering and take a look into the crystal ball. Our event Looking to the future: what will our sector look like in ten years’ time? with expert futurist Tom Cheesewright will help your organisation start thinking about the future.