Cynefin framework

The Cynefin framework – pronounced kuh-NEV-in, from the Welsh word for "habitat" or "place of belonging" – is a sense-making model developed by Dave Snowden at IBM in 1999. It is used to help leaders and practitioners understand the nature of the problems they face and choose responses appropriate to that context.

The framework defines five domains: Clear (formerly called Simple or Obvious), Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, and Disorder. Each domain describes a different relationship between cause and effect, and prescribes a different decision-making approach.

In the Clear domain, cause and effect are self-evident. Best practices apply and the correct response is to sense, categorize, and respond.

In the Complicated domain, cause and effect are knowable but require expert analysis. Good practices (rather than single best practices) apply.

In the Complex domain — where much of software development sits — cause and effect can only be understood in retrospect. There is no single right answer, and the appropriate response is to probe, sense, and respond through [iterative and incremental] experimentation.

In the Chaotic domain, cause and effect are unclear and immediate action is required to establish stability before analysis is possible.

Disorder describes the state of not knowing which domain applies.

A notable feature of the model is the "cliff edge" between Clear and Chaotic. Over-simplifying a problem — treating it as clearer than it is — can cause it to tip suddenly into chaos.