Cynefin framework

Cynefin, pronounced kuh-NEV-in, is a Welsh word referring to the multiple factors in our environment and our experience that influence us in ways we can never understand.

Dave Snowden created the framework in 1999 intending it to be an aid for knowledge management and organizational strategy. The Cynefin framework is used in decision-making to make sense of project situations we encounter.

Cynefin domains

Included within this framework are five domains used to help managers identify how they perceive situations and make sense of their own and other people’s behaviors.

(Take a closer look)

Let’s take a look at these five domains in more detail.

Complex

This concept, discussed previously, has no known cause and effect, and its results are inconsistent. Rules and processes are not viable solutions. There are more unpredictable results than you may be accustomed to—the right answer may be found by correcting mistakes along the way.

Example: Unique innovations may require various approaches and ideas to implement. Updates are implemented based on received feedback. New technology in an organization often falls in this domain.

Complicated

Example: When working with a particularly challenging programming language, it may be necessary to hire a consultant for a software development project.

Chaotic

Example: Consider the challenges posed by Covid-19. It’s necessary to develop a constructive mindset in a chaotic global situation. There is no time for experimentation to generate the knowledge needed to solve the issue; an immediate solution is necessary.

Obvious (simple)

Example: Consider a supermarket cashier facilitating the checkout process. The process is predefined and the results are always the same.

Disorder

For more information on the Cynefin framework and a graphical representation of the five domains, see Cynefin Framework Introduction

Watch this

In this video Dave Snowden will introduce you to the Cynefin framework, with a brief explanation of its origin and evolution, as well as a detailed discussion of its architecture and function.

This is an additional video, hosted on YouTube.

Let’s head over to the next step, where you will have the opportunity to discuss the Cynefin framework with your peers.