Rupert Hofmann

Rupert Hofmann is a foresight practitioner, observational draftsman, author, and initiator.

As a Strategic Foresight Practitioner, Rupert works for Audi Business Innovation where he started the cross-industry platform, Foresight Academy.

He studied at Munich Academy of Fine Arts, Passau University, Columbia University in New York City and at Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Brazil.

In his PhD, he developed the Trend Receiver concept, a novel qualitative method that combines insight and foresight research and contributes to vision finding, long-term decisions and brand and product development.

As an observational draftsman, Rupert’s interest in people and their environment, behavior and motives also drives his observational drawings of people, street situations, malls, stores, offices, beaches and bars.

As an author, Rupert also regularly contributes his insights on topics like visionary competence, customer foresight practice and focus territory, and research on science fiction and facts. 

Rupert Hofmann began his career deeply immersed in the complexities of market and trend research, contributing significantly to the field of customer foresight. His early work focused on understanding changing consumer needs and identifying potential trends that could shape future markets. 

Notably, he was involved in multidimensional studies for Audi AG, where he developed and applied the concept of 'Trend Receivers' – individuals who perceive and reflect changes and potentials in specific domains with high sensitivity. This research was crucial in helping Audi adapt its business model and branding strategies to align with future customer expectations.

Over the years, Hofmann expanded his expertise into various aspects of foresight and strategic decision-making. He published numerous articles and papers on the practical applications of customer foresight, including its impact on the automotive industry, highlighting how companies can leverage insights from visionary customers to drive innovation. 

His 2019 paper on strategic customer foresight and highly automated vehicles underscored the transformative potential of autonomous technologies and their implications for the future of mobility. Hofmann's research not only provided valuable insights for corporate decision-making but also established frameworks for understanding and predicting consumer behaviour in rapidly evolving markets.

In his recent work, Hofmann has continued to push the boundaries of foresight and innovation. His publication, "Visionary Competence," explores the importance of developing a forward-thinking mindset to identify and capitalise on future opportunities. 

At the Foresight Academy, he delves into how individuals and organisations can cultivate visionary competence to navigate the complexities of modern business environments. Hofmann's contributions to the field are also evident in his collaboration with the Bavarian Foresight Institute, where he investigates the interplay between science fiction and trend research, offering unique perspectives on how imaginative thinking can influence real-world innovation. 

His ongoing efforts to democratise future competencies and incorporate influencer insights into strategic planning demonstrate his commitment to fostering a proactive approach to business foresight.

Rupert Hofmann envisions a future where organisations and individuals harness the power of foresight to navigate the complexities of modern business and societal landscapes. He believes in the importance of developing visionary competence, which involves anticipating future trends and opportunities, and integrating these insights into strategic decision-making processes. By leveraging innovative foresight methods and cultivating a mindset geared towards long-term thinking, Hofmann aims to empower businesses to create sustainable, adaptable, and forward-thinking strategies that can thrive in an ever-changing world.