Science fiction prototypes: Visionary technology narratives between futures

Futures research has lived up to Wells' prediction by becoming a legitimate scholarly discipline. In this paper, we explore the role of science fiction in creating prototypes of imagined and better futures evident in these narratives even when they are distinct from the futures they predict. We explore the contributions and warnings of utopian and dystopian stories to the development and the specific realisation of future business visions. By drawing on Mannermaa's framework, a selection of science fiction writings, and the description of sources for innovations, we are able to examine the impact of prototyping on business management. Within this paper we describe scenarios as the mechanisms that test strategic direction while the prototype offers a mechanism for the analysis of business vision. We explore the synergy that exists between creative fiction authors and futurologists, discussing the predictive elements and the source of inspirations for innovators. We argue that while business futurologists appear to offer pedestrian "predictions" and future models, the most impact is achieved with views of the future that are presented as prototypical stories; stories that plant a seed that germinates and comes to fruition in a more distant future. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.