What do normative scenarios represent?

Normative scenarios are primarily used to articulate a preferred future outcome based on specific goals or values. They focus on what should happen, rather than just what might happen. This involves establishing a vision of a desired state and outlining the necessary actions and pathways to achieve that state. By setting a specific performance target, normative scenarios help organizations and stakeholders align their strategies and efforts towards achieving this envisioned future.

In contrast, choices that involve a range of possible futures or economic downturns relate more to descriptive or exploratory scenarios, which analyze uncertainties and various potential developments rather than focusing on a prescriptive goal. Historical overviews serve a different purpose by reflecting on what has already occurred, rather than aiming for a future target. Thus, the emphasis of normative scenarios on defining and striving toward a specific preferred outcome makes the understanding of future trajectories clear and goal-oriented.