An Idea Development Workshop that builds on the growing conversation in management and organizational studies about the role of future imaginaries in developing solution-oriented approaches to societal grand challenges. The hosts welcome the submission of early project ideas with a conceptual, empirical, and/or methodological focus to help consolidate the emerging research stream on alternative futures. The workshop aims to build synergies with the EGOS Standing Working Group on Desirable Futures and to advance the research agenda for the next decade.

The workshop will provide an opportunity for participants to discuss and learn about recent advances in alternative futures research, to develop a network in the field, and to receive individual feedback on project ideas and work in progress. Accepted participants are invited to stay for one to two nights at the Starling, a four-star hotel near the HEC campus in Lausanne. There is no conference fee and lunches, coffee breaks and dinners are free of charge.

On the afternoon of May 6, there will be presentations and discussions on current trends and future directions in alternative futures research. Senior scholars will share their insights and experiences in the field. In the evening, there will be a networking program and dinner. The morning of May 7 will focus on roundtable sessions to help participants develop their working papers and project ideas.

The selection of papers and project ideas will be based on a 500-word abstract. Early stage work is welcome and full papers are not expected. The deadline for submitting abstracts is 11:59 pm, April 8, 2024.