A632.8.4.RB - Cynefin Framework Reflection

A632.8.4.RB - Cynefin Framework Reflection

            In the video Dave Snowden define and explained what The Cynefin Framework and Model. The word “Cynefin”, a Welsh word that is commonly translated as ‘habitat’ or ‘place’ and means a place of multiple belongings. We are all rooted in many different pasts which profoundly influence who we are, but of which we are only partially aware. i.e. geographic, tribal, religious, cultural, etc.

            Mr. Snowden define The Cynefin Model as a sense-making model – data proceeds the framework. Framework emerges from the data and social process. The 3 basic types of systems involved in Cynefin are; ordered, complex and chaotic. Ordered systems are divided into 2; simple and complicated. There are 5 domains in total; Simple, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic and Disorder. (Snowden, 2010)

            We typically make decisions by following a pattern of assessment, information gathering, and identifying and selecting the best alternatives, and past experiences. This process works in many situations but the business environment in particular is fraught with ambiguity and uncertainly. The Cynefin Framework addresses the complexity of decisions and provide contexts in which to shift depending on the environment.

            When I think about decisions that I’ve had to make in multiple contexts, one that comes to mind is one that started as complex but became complicated.  I have been a contractor (mechanic, inspector, engineer) for all of my career, I have only ever had 2 direct jobs (Army and high school). I had been with girlfriend (now wife) for some time while contracting. The chaotic part was her ultimatum of finding and job that didn’t require travel and that I could be with our friendly. So when the opportunity to become a regular employee for The Boeing Company, no amount of planning could have prepared me and my family. The complicated part was researching, visiting, and making the decision on where to rise my family.

            One factor Snowden didn’t account for and that is a strong, determine, mean, and while informed woman. I think she may have already taken a course in The Cynefin Model.

Works Cited

Snowden, D. (2007, November 1). A leaders framework for decision making. Retrieved from Harvard Business Review: https://hbr.org/2007/11/a-leaders-framework-for-decision-making/

Snowden, D. (2010, July 11). The Cynefin Framework. Retrieved from YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7oz366X0-8&feature=youtu.be