Using Cynefin to Navigate Uncertainty
The Cynefin Framework by Dave Snowden is a very useful Sensemaking tool - it helps us to understand the most effective approaches to solving problems and managing change as the levels of certainty decrease and complexity increases. Whether you've come across this framework before or not, this session will cover both the basic explanation of the framework and the practical application of it to support and inform decision-making.
Outline/Structure of the Talk
This session is a combination of real examples and theory. The aim is to provide enough theory behind the examples so that attendees can start to use some of the concepts when they return to the workplace.
10 mins
- Using the framework for planning large projects and making more effective use of time
- A way to use the framework with anyone and not have to explain the whole thing to them - Cynefin in plain language
10 mins
- Complexity in the Cynefin sense - how to explore complex problems
- Identifying complexity and surfacing assumptions
- How to design experiments to validate/invalidate assumptions with minimal investment
- Making experiments that are 'safe to fail'
5 mins
- Summary and Q&A
Learning Outcome
This session will cover the following learning outcomes;
The Cynefin Framework - an explanation and how to use it
Application of the Cynefin Framework for planning different types of work
When to use exploratory approaches and when they are not appropriate
How to plan better analysis workshops and stop them from being derailed
Target Audience
People involved in planning and delivering projects
Prerequisites for Attendees
No previous knowledge required - this session will cover both the basic explanation of the framework and the practical application of it to support and inform decision-making.
