Trend drivers are the underlying forces that create, shape, and accelerate trends over time. They explain why a trend is happening, not just what is happening. If a trend is what you see changing, then trend drivers are what causes that change. We can divide drivers in main categories:
- Social & Cultural drivers: Relate to changes in human values, lifestyles, and behavior, such as aging populations or shifts in work-life balance. Changing attitudes toward sustainability, diversity, or wellness. Urbanization or remote living
- Technological drivers: Stem from new or improved technologies, like AI, automation, and mobile connectivity.
- Economic drivers: Involve financial conditions, including inflation, income inequality, and the cost of resources.
- Political & Regulatory drivers: Encompass laws, policies, and governance decisions, such as data privacy or climate regulations.
- Environmental drivers: Involve natural and ecological pressures, including climate change and resource scarcity.
- Consumer & Market drivers: Focus on changes in customer expectations and competitive dynamics, such as demand for convenience or personalization.