Article

Are you familiar with the principle of "connecting the dots"? The "dots" are impulses or ideas that we gain, for example, through refreshing conversations, reading material, and experiences.

We all tend to treat such points individually. However, we benefit more when we "connect" them. This also applies when they do not seem to fit together: because then we gain new perspectives and ideas.

This may sound easy and straightforward at first, but it has great potential because this combination allows us to recognize future developments—perhaps even disruptive dynamics.

As futurist Amy Web emphasized at SXSW: "True disruption rarely comes from a single trend. It comes from the convergence of multiple forces in different areas.

In this article, I've compiled ten such dots that I picked up at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in 2025. And I'll give you some pointers on what they mean for the future of brands and their companies:

1. The End of Future Research 
2. Substance Matters 
3. The Era of The Cowards 
4. There is Always Space 
5. Social Health as Competitive Edge 
6. The Real Age of You 
7. The Responsibility Shift 
8. Convergence is Key
9. The Era of Living Intelligence 
10. Learn Small – Act Large