The difference between current state and future state design lies in their focus: the current state documents how things are now, while the future state visualizes how things should be.
The current state analysis is a snapshot of the existing situation, processes, and infrastructure. It aims to provide a clear understanding of the present reality, including its strengths, weaknesses, and inefficiencies. It serves as a baseline for improvement.
The future state design, on the other hand, outlines the desired end-goal. It defines the target processes, roles, technologies, and overall organizational structure after improvements are implemented. It is a vision of the optimal scenario.
Here's a breakdown of the key differences in a table format:
| Feature | Current State | Future State |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Understand the existing situation | Define the desired end-state |
| Focus | "As-Is" Processes | "To-Be" Processes |
| Perspective | Reactive - describes the present | Proactive - envisions the future |
| Data Source | Existing data, observations, interviews | Analysis of needs, best practices, target metrics |
| Output | Process maps, documentation, performance metrics | Process models, requirements, success criteria |
| Goal | Identify problems and inefficiencies | Define improvements and desired outcomes |
| Timeframe | Present | Future (target date) |
For example, consider a customer service department:
- Current State: Might reveal long call waiting times, inefficient routing processes, and low customer satisfaction scores based on existing data and employee interviews.
- Future State: Might envision automated call routing, a centralized knowledge base for agents, and proactive customer service outreach, leading to shorter waiting times and improved satisfaction.
Essentially, the current state identifies where you are, while the future state describes where you want to be. The gap between them highlights the areas requiring improvement, and the future state design guides the implementation of those improvements. This gap analysis then informs the roadmap to transition from the current state to the future state.
