Due to the complexity embedded in the socio-technical system and associated long planning periods, system innovation has become a research topic to remain mainly in the science and technology policies area and not much effort has been put into investigating the means of involving companies and product development teams in planning for system innovation. This paper presents results of ongoing research which proposes to develop a scenario method to help companies and product development teams in planning for system innovation. This paper presents the criteria which need to be met by the scenario method. Firstly, a brief overview of the theory around system innovation is given. This is followed by a critical analysis of dynamics and levels of innovation to set a background for criteria development. Then, a discussion clarifying the relevance of companies and product development teams to system innovation is provided prior to criteria development. Following this discussion, five criteria which must be met by the scenario method being developed are identified.