tobeontwerp

tobeontwerp is a design concept used in transformation and product development that centers on the envisioned future state of an organization, system, or service. The term combines the English to-be with the Dutch ontwerp (design). In practice it refers to future-state design: defining what should exist before detailing how to achieve it. It is often used alongside analyses of the current state to contrast present conditions with the desired outcome.

The typical process starts with clarifying objectives and stakeholder needs, then building a target-state model that specifies required capabilities, processes, data, and experiences. Designers then create concrete solutions and a transition plan, using methods such as scenario planning, service design, and prototyping to test feasibility and value before large-scale work. The approach is common in enterprise architecture, IT transformation, and product or service design.

Applications include corporate strategy, digital transformation, service design, and operations improvement. Benefits include providing a clear vision, aligning multiple stakeholders, and enabling staged investment. Potential criticisms include vagueness if the target state ignores constraints, over-optimism without governance, and the risk of insufficient linkage to implementation.

Related ideas include target-state design, future-state architecture, and as-is/to-be analyses. The term is used in Dutch-speaking contexts and in English discussions of future-state design.