Current Meeting Schedule

Important note:  All members are asked to read and contribute to our future.

Call for Proposals for 2010 and Beyond - the planning workspace

Nov 7 Planning Update Presentation - the goal and program outline

November 7, 2009

Future Studies / Special Presentations SIG

Topic: Data & Information Presentation, Best Practices

Presenter: Dale Stenseth

Moderator and Discussion Leader: George Kubik

Abstract: Data and information transfer, for business, academic, or organization purposes, has come a long way from what most of us have experienced. Our ability to receive and absorb data far exceeds some of the slow, slow teaching techniques, like hand writing information on a board, or having PowerPoint presentations read to us, verbatim. Many interesting examples of content-rich graphics will be presented and discussed.  A few of Edward Tufte's presentation suggestions will also be presented.

The second half of the session will be brainstorming about the future of data and information presentation, and possible improvements to the MN Futurists presentations, web pages, and documents might be improved. Come prepared to participate!

Reference links:

Graphics and Web Design Based on Edward Tufte's Principles

Wikipedia entry for Edward Tufte

Edward Tufte's Website

The Images of Edward Tufte

November 14, 2009

Special Transportation SIG

Topic: "Does High Speed Rail Have a Viable Future in the U.S.?"

Co-presenters: Bob Friskney and Dick Saunders

Abstract: The Obama Administration has reawakened public interest in high speed rail travel within heavily populated regions of the U.S. with $13 billion in feasibility study grants. Is there a place and a need for high speed rail in the face of intensively developed air and highway networks? We will analyze the social, economic, political and technological (SEPT) aspects of the question.

November 21, 2009

Technology Futures SIG

Topic: "Climate Change Factors from the Viewpoint of a Meteorologist"

Guest Speaker: Dr, David Houghton, Ph.D., retired professor of atmospheric sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and former president of the American Meteorological Society (1995).

Moderator: David Grider

Abstract: The subject of climate change will be discussed from the perspective of the human-produced climate impacts that have come to the attention of the world community as evidence of climate change ascribed to human activity mounts.  This talk/discussion will highlight the many dimensions of the issue and is intended to be a forum where you can share questions and impressions.  Topics to be touched on may include:  history, observations, physics, uncertainties, human influences and impacts -- including international, regional and personal perspectives.

November 28, 2009

Societal, Management, Education Futures SIG

Topic:  "Comprehensive Systems Analysis (CSA)"

Speaker: Bill Peter

Abstract: Bill Peter will conduct a workshop on CSA, a useful tool for Futurists  When the results of any enterprise are unacceptable, a CSA is needed, a vision of the future must be clarified, and then effective leadership methods must be used to lead the enterprise to its chosen vision. We will discuss what such a system must contain in examples from various segments of society: business, government, education, healthcare, and not-for-profit organizations.

December 26, 2009

Societal, Management, Education Futures SIG

Topic: "Creative Plannning During a Major Recession"

Speaker: Bill Peter

Moderator:

Abstract: Bill Peter will provide a 45-minute overview of a full-day workshop he is conducting for business, government, education, healthcare, and not-for-profit organizations on this subject. As a group, we will apply the principles to The World Future Society - Minnesota Chapter.

After much heartache, this major recession will end; organizations that creatively plan ahead will prosper.

Other Topics Pending for Fourth Quarter 2009 and First Quarter 2010

Roundtable: Tech Breakthrough Forecasts for 2015-2020  

See topics awaiting dates above.

Past Meetings

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