Weak Signals concept in Futures Studies

Surprise prevention is one of the essential and critical functions of the Future Studies and focusing on the detection and analysis of Weak Signal(s) can effectively help us reach this important goal. Search results in Iranian databases SID and Irandoc by use of weak signal(s) and related terms, clearly show that weak signals and it's conceptual-structural aspects and importance, position and functions have been seriously neglected by Iranian futurists and researchers. Therefore, this paper, parallel to examining the conceptual scope of the weak signals term, explains the conceptual and functional aspects, importance and position of weak Signals. Based on the documentary research method and referring to researches and studies conducted in the futures research field, this study examines the conceptual aspects of weak signals. It uses the Scientometrics analysis method and based on search results in Sciencedirect database try to clarify and define the position of weak signals concept in the recent research projects and activities in futures research area. In this paper, some common ambiguities in the futures research works in terms of process approach and methodology have been discussed. Some technical points on how to advance a futures research by focusing on the process approach and applying the concept of weak signals, have also been summarized.