What We Do
Richard Adler
Distinguished Fellow
IFTF Research Affiliate Richard Adler was born in New York City, raised in Colorado, attended college in New England, taught in the Midwest, and spent most of his working life in Silicon Valley. These many changes of scene have given him a broad perspective on American culture and a strong curiosity about what is coming next. More recently, he has broadened his viewpoint further by working on international projects in Europe and Asia.
Richard spent a decade on the staff of the Institute for the Future (before the full emergence of the Internet) where his research focused on the potential of online communications for individuals and organizations. After leaving IFTF, Richard pursued an interest in the intersection of aging and technology. He joined the staff of SeniorNet, where he built a national network of more than 100 Learning Centers that offered computer classes specifically designed for older adults (there are now more than 200 in operation). While at SeniorNet, he also conducted the first national study of computer use by seniors and designed and directed an award-winning online project that enabled older adults to engage in discussions of important national issues. Over the last decade, Richard has worked for clients ranging from large corporations to small start-ups.
In 2006, Richard returned to IFTF as a research affiliate. He believes that the aging of our population is not just an economic burden but will also provide exciting opportunities for innovation. Richard contributes to several IFTF programs, including Health Horizons, where he has done work on anytime anyplace health care and games for health.
Richard holds a BA from Harvard, an MA from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA from the McLaren School of Business at the University of San Francisco. Outside of work, Richard likes to travel and experience other cultures.