Overview
This lecture introduces the Cynefin framework, a sensemaking model for understanding and responding to different types of systems and decision-making contexts.
The Cynefin Framework Overview
- Cynefin (Welsh for "habitat" or "place of multiple belongings") represents the idea of being influenced by many unseen factors.
- It is a sensemaking framework, where patterns and understanding emerge from the data, unlike categorization models which precede data.
- The framework helps choose decision approaches based on the type of system or situation.
Domains of the Cynefin Framework
- The main domains are: Simple, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, and Disorder.
- Simple domain: Cause and effect are obvious and repeated; use sense-categorize-respond; best practice applies.
- Complicated domain: Cause and effect exist but are not obvious; use sense-analyze-respond; experts or analysis required; apply good practice.
- Complex domain: No clear causality, only constraints among agents; use probe-sense-respond; safe-fail experiments to find solutions; emergent practice develops.
- Chaotic domain: No relationship between cause and effect; act-sense-respond to rapidly stabilize the situation; practices are novel.
- Disorder: Unclear which domain applies; people tend to respond based on their own biases or preferences.
Application and Boundaries
- Recognize that different contexts require different thinking and methods—no "one size fits all."
- The boundary between Simple and Chaotic domains is a "cliff": moving from simple to chaos can result in sudden failure and high cost.
- It's safer to operate mainly in Complicated and Complex domains, moving only minimal elements into Simple to reduce risk.
- The framework aids quick decision-making by matching the right approach to the current domain.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Cynefin — A Welsh word meaning habitat; a framework for understanding different system types and choosing appropriate decision-making strategies.
- Sensemaking Model — A model where understanding emerges from data and social processes.
- Best Practice — Standardized, repeatable methods, suitable for the Simple domain.
- Good Practice — Multiple valid approaches, suitable for the Complicated domain.
- Probe-Sense-Respond — Approach for Complex domains involving safe experimentation and adaptation.
- Act-Sense-Respond — Approach for Chaotic domains requiring immediate action to stabilize.
- Disorder — The state of not knowing which domain the current situation fits in.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on how decision-making in your organization or projects matches the Cynefin domains.
- Identify current situations or problems and map them to the Simple, Complicated, Complex, or Chaotic domains.
- Consider reading further materials or case studies on the Cynefin framework for deeper understanding.