Assumption Quote by Russell L. Ackoff
“The future is better dealt with using assumptions than forecasts.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Recreating the Corporation, 1990
Using assumptions to guide decisions is more practical than relying on precise forecasts, which are often unreliable.
In simple terms: Assumptions help more than forecasts.
Key Takeaway
Base decisions on plausible assumptions.
Themes
decision making
strategy
uncertainty
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
strategic
educational
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- policy development
- project planning
- investment analysis
Key Concepts
systems thinking
scenario planning
risk management
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions are you making?
- How can you test their validity?
A Different Perspective
Assumptions can be biased, leading to flawed plans.
![“Cizek came to Vienna [from Leitmeritz, a small town in Bohemia, then Austrian] when he was twenty [in 1885], and entered the Academy of Fine Arts. He lodged with a poor family, where, fortunately, there were children. These children saw him painting and drawing, and they wanted, as Cizek has so…” quote by Russell L. Ackoff](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5d1/russell-l-ackoff-12928_art_cizek-came-to-vienna-from-leitmeritz-a-s_694148.jpg)
