# Critical uncertainty: what it is and how it works
> A critical uncertainty is an issue whose development is uncertain and whose outcome could significantly change a decision or a system.
URL: https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/critical-uncertainty

# Critical uncertainty

A critical uncertainty is an issue whose development is uncertain and whose outcome could significantly change a decision or a system

What it means, how it is used and where it comes up, with its related concepts.

[The whole glossary](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary)

## What it is and how it works

It is used in foresight to explore scenarios and prepare alternatives. It should be distinguished from a little-known variable that is irrelevant to the strategy. Identifying one requires assessing its impact and explaining why a single course of development cannot be assumed.

Topics

[Trends and foresight](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/category/tendencias-y-prospectiva)

## Related concepts

- [Strategic foresight](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/strategic-foresight)
- [Trend analyst](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/digital-marketing/trend-analyst.html)
- [Speculative design](https://www.zorraquino.com/en/dictionary/speculative-design)