This document discusses environmental scanning and the QUEST technique. It defines environmental scanning as monitoring, evaluating, and disseminating external and internal information. The QUEST technique is a 4-step process where strategists 1) identify events and trends, 2) speculate on issues, 3) prepare scenarios, and 4) identify strategic options. It allows for rapid development of potential futures at low cost. While it relies on senior executives, it ensures implementation. Evaluation notes its speed and cost but over-reliance on executives could contaminate results. After scanning, strategists prepare an environmental threats and opportunities profile to analyze impact of different sectors.