Complexity Archives – Self Determined Life

The Cynefin framework – and how it helps us understand complexity

Cynefin framework

I write and talk a lot about complexity and working and leading in complex environments. And in doing so, I invariably refer to Dave Snowden’s Cynefin framework. Cynefin (pronounced Ku-nev-in) is a Welsh word meaning something like ‘habitat’, but which also implies multiple unknowable factors in our environment and our experience. Snowden first introduced the … Read more

Managing complex change: dealing with the people challenges

people challenges

There is an understandable tendency to focus on the practical and logistical aspects of managing complex change. Frameworks like like Kotter’s 8 step model to accelerate change or Bridges’ transition model of change can assisit. But, complex circumstances, give rise to some specific personal challenges for those involved,. In this video, drawing on my own … Read more

Managing complexity: 4 techniques for complex problems

How can leaders deal with increasing uncertainty in organisations? This post provides a framework to help you with managing complexity in increasingly volatile times. Even before recent large scale political upheavals, the pace and scale of the change taking place all around us was increasingly disruptive for economies, businesses, leaders and individuals alike. We can … Read more