Socrates and the fox: A strategic dialogue - Clem Sunter , Chantell Illbury

Take the analytical method of the father of Western philosophy, Socrates, and the wily habits of nature’s cleverest animal, the fox. Add a hint of Eastern mysticism from one of the finest minds ever to grace the field of scenario thinking, Pierre Wack. Blend all three – with a sprinkling of originality and plenty of experimentation – into a strategic conversation model and what do you get? Socrates & the fox. By its very nature Socratic dialogue transforms the strategic conversation in companies from a normal, dreary superficial analysis to a full-blooded, back-to-basics debate. Chantell Ilbury and Clem Sunter have developed a unique and independently crafted methodology which integrates scenario planning into the mainstream process of strategic planning and decision-making. Their version of the Socratic method has come about through rigorous application, re-evaluation and fine-tuning in the course of facilitating countless sessions with a diverse portfolio of companies throughout the world – from giant multinationals to family-run businesses. In Socrates & the fox they show how the strategic dialogue in companies can be taken to the next level. They have constructed an agenda of ten questions which, if answered fearlessly and honestly by management, will provide them with a clear idea of their future in the “game”. Numerous examples from sessions that the authors have facilitated around the world are given by way of illustration.