Transitionscoming

Transitionscoming is a neologism used to describe a proactive, anticipatory approach to managing major transitions in technology, society, and policy. It emphasizes recognizing imminent change and shaping outcomes to reduce disruption and increase equity.

Origin and usage: The term blends transitions and coming and has appeared in scattered policy papers, design blogs, and academic discussions since the early 2020s. There is no universally accepted definition, and it is often used descriptively to label a set of practices rather than a formal framework.

Conceptual framework: Transitionscoming typically involves four elements: anticipation (futures analysis and early warning signals), inclusive design (participatory planning with affected communities), staged implementation (phased pilots and rollouts), and evaluation and adaptation (monitoring outcomes and adjusting plans).

Applications: In energy policy, transitionscoming may support just transition plans, investment in retraining, and grid modernization. In digital governance, it can guide upgrades with user-centered design and data privacy safeguards. In urban planning, it might inform phased infrastructure replacement and traffic reorganization.

Criticism and limits: As a broad concept, transitionscoming risks vagueness and can be used superficially without concrete metrics. Its effectiveness depends on transparent governance, credible data, and genuine stakeholder engagement.

Related concepts include transition management, anticipatory governance, and resilience.