This article assesses the implications of the volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) narrative for policy professionals and in particular, what aspects of coordination and development work should change. The authors argue that by harnessing new technologies and integrating them with long-term planning tools, policymakers can help governments anticipate and reduce the consequences of crisis events in a VUCA future.

The proposition that the world is becoming increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous suggests that old ways of governing must be significantly changed if they are to respond to contemporary challenges. This article takes an ambivalent perspective regarding the VUCA narrative but finds value in its application to public policy research and practice. 

The article reviews prominent policy theories, highlighting how they offer insights into managing stability and change within policymaking processes. By building upon existing theoretical frameworks, the authors suggest that governments can effectively respond to a VUCA world by improving (not abandoning) their current approach. 

Findings

1. The VUCA world calls for evolution in policy coordination and development.
2. The VUCA world calls for fast, evidence-informed policy triage and mitigation efforts. 
3. The VUCA world calls for long-term scenario planning and anticipatory public policy.