Speculative design (closely related to design fiction, design futures, or critical design) is the practice of designing future products or services as a way to explore the potential impacts of emerging technology or social or cultural trends. The practice shows up in art galleries and academic settings, but can it provide value in corporate settings where most incentives exist around the near term success of the organization?
Yes, speculative design can provide value in corporate settings
By fighting against the decision makers focus on the now, speculative design can expand consideration sets and improve the decision making of the organization.
Speculative design focuses on technology's long term impact