This constitutional scenarios paper is part of a programme of work undertaken against the background of the Scottish referendum, and led by the Institute for Government in collaboration with the Future of the UK and Scotland programme.

It is an important paper for three reasons. First, it looks beyond Scotland alone to include discussion of devolution reform debates in Wales and Northern Ireland. Second, it looks at the implications of these debates for the co-ordination of UK government activity with that of the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish governments. With all eyes on what's happening in Scotland we too easily neglect the other parts of the UK, but also change – and the need for change – at the UK centre. And third, while giving full consideration to a Scottish Yes, it also digs deeper into what a Scottish No might mean by setting out and comparing the various proposals made for further-reaching devolution for a Scotland remaining in the UK.

The message is clear: whatever happens in Scotland, constitutional reform will continue, and continue to have an effect in reshaping how Scotland and the rest of the UK are run. Professor Charlie Jeffery Future of the UK and Scotland Programme Research Co-ordinator Vice-Principal (Public Policy and Impact), University of Edinburgh.