Megatrends for Business Innovation

Why it matters
Provides a foundation for understanding how innovation emerges, what drives it, and how ideas translate into real business value. It establishes a coherent framework for connecting the different themes of the course.

What you will do
You will explore the nature of innovation and the principles of futures thinking. The focus is on how different types of innovation relate to organisational choices, market dynamics, and long-term development.

Why it matters
Supports better decision-making in situations where information is abundant but certainty is limited. Helps distinguish meaningful trends from noise and short-term fluctuations.

What you will do
Through hands-on workshops, you will apply foresight tools to map trends and identify weak signals. The session also explores the limitations of traditional forecasting and introduces alternative approaches for dealing with uncertainty.

Why it matters
Helps identify the underlying forces that shape future developments and trigger change. Strengthens systems thinking and the ability to understand cause-and-effect relationships.

What you will do
You will work on identifying and analysing key drivers within your own organisational or industry context. The session also addresses the role of institutions and policy environments in shaping innovation and influencing the direction of change.

Why it matters
Enables you to prepare for multiple possible futures instead of relying on a single forecast. Enhances strategic flexibility and improves risk awareness.

What you will do
You will develop and analyse scenarios through a structured, step-by-step process in a team setting. This includes identifying key drivers and critical uncertainties, applying frameworks such as the 2×2 matrix, and linking scenarios to strategic decision-making.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
• Valid temporary residence permit or EU citizenship.

1. Demonstrates an understanding of the multifaceted nature of innovation. (Knowledge)
2. Applies foresight tools to identify and differentiate between trends, risks, and uncertainties in innovation contexts. (Application)
3. Summarises and reflects on key uncertainties that influence innovation in social and collaborative contexts. (Social)
4. Develop skills for using foresight methods for addressing complex issues in an agile environment. (Individual)
5. Advocates for thoughtful and adaptive approaches to navigating uncertainty and complexity in future decision-making. (Transferable)Upon completion of this course the student:

Participants who complete the course will receive a continuing education certificate with ECTS credits.

To successfully complete the course and receive a certificate, participants must actively participate in sessions, complete independent assignments.

A key component of the assessment is a team-based scenario project, in which participants analyse key drivers and develop scenarios. The work culminates in a final presentation where the scenarios and resulting strategic conclusions are presented.
The team project constitutes a significant part of the final grade, and it is evaluated based on content quality, strength of argumentation, as well as presentation and collaboration skills.

The course takes place at EBS’s modern campus in Tallinn, Lauteri 3. Students have access to ergonomic classrooms, the EBS library, and the cloud-based Canvas learning platform. The study process is supported by online tools such as Zoom, MS Teams, or Canvas Conference. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building. On-site attendance is required.