THE BUCKMINSTER FULLER CHALLENGE
Catalyzing the vanguard of a design science revolution
Each year, BFI will offer a single $100,000 prize to support the development and implementation of a solution with significant potential to solve the world's most pressing problems in the shortest possible time while enhancing the Earth's ecological integrity.
The Buckminster Fuller Challenge seeks submissions of design science solutions within a broad range of human endeavor that exemplify the trimtab principle. Trimtabs demonstrate how small amounts of energy and resources precisely applied at the right time and place can produce maximum advantageous change.
For more information, visit the Challenge website at http://challenge.bfi.org
The term "design science" was coined by Buckminster Fuller to describe his unique approach to solving complex problems.
A number of important features characterize Fuller's design science approach. As a process, it must be comprehensive — driven by holistic systems thinking; it must be anticipatory — needs driven and future oriented; it must be aligned with nature — reflecting nature's underlying processes and principles; and, it must be science based — subject to rigorous concepts, testing and empirical verification.
We currently offer three Design Science Planning Programs:
- workshops for students and professionals seeking to apply the design science approach to local and regional issues
- design science strategic consulting for government leaders, business and organizations
- The Design Science Lab, a rigorous hands-on training in the design science method focused on humanity's most complex global problems.
 |
Our flagship education program is the Design Science Lab. |
» Find out more about our Design Science Planning Programs
BFI.ORG: Our fully interactive website utilizes leading edge open-source platforms and now serves over 35,000 visitors each month. BFI.org is designed to offer programs and services to our network of users with the goal of creating an international hub of content and activity largely generated by our site users. The site currently offers access to a complete information clearinghouse on Fuller's legacy; community-generated content; online publications; image galleries; discussion forums, and a searchable database for network supporters.» How to use our website
Web-based Programs include:
 |
BFI Online Community | |
 |
Ask the Experts | |
 |
R. Buckminster Fuller Information Clearinghouse | |
 |
Dymaxion Artifacts Online Store | |
 |
Online Dialogues | |
A global community of Fuller-inspired practitioners, the network includes leaders in the research and development of systems-based solutions to humanity's current challenges. Individuals in the network play a critical role in the fulfilling BFI's mission through their volunteerism, expert advice, participation in programs, and financial support. We invite you to consider making a donation to support the Institute today!
What are the benefits of supporting BFI?
- You have the opportunity to experience a deeper level of engagement with our website, BFI.org, and
- Create a 'user profile' of your background and/or interests.
- Be listed in and able to search the BFI Network Directory, an annual publication of BFI's supporters.
- Utilize the "Groups" tool to hold meetings with other network supporters and discuss topics of your own choosing (coming soon!).
- Receive invitations to join groups created by BFI on specific projects or topics.
- You will receive our print publication, TRIMTAB and our monthly electronic news bulletin, Design Science News.
- You are extended discounts on the price of our educational seminars, events and items in our on-line store.
- You are included in special invitations to join BFI at in-person networking events.
- You are connected to an international network of people who worked with Fuller, have been inspired by his vision, and/or who are committed to doing their part to design a world that works for all.
- You have the knowledge that your support — no matter the size — helps further our commitment to extend Fuller's legacy to a new generation. Your support is applied directly to the design and implementation of an increasing number of programs and activities conducted on behalf of our constituencies.
» Learn more about joining BFI's network
 |
Trimtab | |
 |
Design Science News | |
 |
Design Science Lab Reports | |
 |
BFI Network Membership Directory | |
BFI occasionally engages in the research and development of projects and ideas which align with our mission and further our goals. Our role in these projects varies depending on our level of engagement and can range from fiscal sponsor, to producer, to initial catalyst. These endeavors often derive from the inspiration, experience and individual initiative taken by a member of our network.
Recent projects include:
 |
EARTHscope (ES) — a research and design project conducted over a five year period, aimed at developing online tools for displaying the profound, yet often invisible trends affecting global and local communities. The prototype version allows organizations to publish their information as engaging "geo-stories": downloadable presentations that combine dynamic maps with supporting graphics, sound, and text. The EARTHscope was recently modified to serve as an education component of the viral web-campaign, the BioDaVersity Code — a joint project of BFI, the Harvard Center for Health and the Global Environment and Free Range Graphics. | |
 |
Spaceship Earth – The Game — In collaboration with Cal(IT)2's Game Lab, BFI conducted an 18 month research process to develop a Multi-Player "Reality" Game that couples the engagement and creative motivation of concerned citizens with the "hard fun" of network computer games as a catalyst for systemic global change. | |
 |
World Shelters Project — A Hurricane Katrina collaboration with World Shelter, Inc. on the installation of Fuller-inspired autonomous shelter units in Mississippi, used by the staff of two destroyed fire stations. | |
» Find out more about Research and Development
BFI produces public events, workshops, lecture series and symposia to which our network members are invited. Often they are open to the general public. Join our mailing list for news about our upcoming events.
Our staff and network of experts also participate on behalf of BFI at conferences, public events and in the classroom as panelists, presenters and workshop facilitators. Please contact us if you are interested in having us attend your event.
 |
World Changing | |
 |
Mobile Living | |
