Stop Building Faster Horses Read Sci-Fi: Science Fiction as Strategic Innovation for CPOs

The collection of sources functions as a manifesto urging Chief Product Officers (CPOs) to abandon traditional, incremental innovation sources, such as market consultants and conventional research, and instead adopt science fiction (Sci-Fi) as their primary strategic tool. The authors argue that Sci-Fi writers are superior forecasters because they engage in deep systems thinking and worldbuilding, exploring the emotional, societal, and ethical consequences of future technologies rather than merely extrapolating present trends. Multiple sources emphasize that historical tech leaders like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and the founders of Google drew foundational inspiration from Sci-Fi works, proving that imaginative narratives drive category-defining, transformative innovation. The episode conclude by offering actionable frameworks like Sci-Fi Prototyping and Design Fiction, enabling product leaders to use dystopian warnings as ethical guides and to create new consumer desire by envisioning radical possibilities.