Managing the exploration of new operational and strategic activities using the scenario method-assessing future capabilities in the field of electricity distribution industry

Organizations are finding it more and more difficult to stay in balance with the pace of change in these days. The continuous rise of business opportunities and increase of global competition demand proactive strategy making, recognition of new opportunities, and an ability to continuously renew the capabilities to face the changing business environment. The radically changing business environment of the electricity distribution industry in Finland opens up new interindustrial business opportunities and forces organizations to renew their strategies and operations. To exploit the emerging opportunities, organizations need to have methods and practices, which help them to be aware of changes in the business environment and to facilitate the development of their capabilities. This paper presents the scenario process as a tool for assessing the requirements of the changing business environment, and identifying the capabilities needed in alternative future scenarios resulting suggestions for the companies as well as for the authorities where to direct their future activities.