The Cynefin Framework

The Cynefin Framework is a decision-making tool that helps organizations understand the nature of their problems and choose appropriate responses. It divides situations into five categories: Clear (simple, predictable), Complicated (requires expert analysis), Complex (emerges over time and needs experimentation), Chaotic (urgent action needed), and Disorder (unclear which category applies). By recognizing which category a situation falls into, leaders can respond more effectively—applying best practices in clear cases, analysis in complicated ones, experimental approaches in complex situations, and immediate action in chaos. It promotes adaptive and context-aware decision-making.