The Cynefin model, developed by Dave Snowden, offers a fresh perspective on managing complexities within innovation. It presents four differing domains: Simple, Complicated, Complex, and Chaotic. Each domain has unique characteristics and requires specific management responses.
In the Simple domain, cause and effect are straightforward and predictable. The Complicated domain, while still predictable, requires expert analysis to understand the relationship between cause and effect. The Complex domain, on the other hand, is unpredictable, with cause and effect only identifiable in retrospect. The Chaotic domain is entirely unpredictable, with no discernible cause and effect relationships.
Innovation often oscillates between the Complex and Chaotic domains. The Complex domain is where radical innovation emerges, while incremental innovation often occurs in the Complicated domain. The Cynefin model is a useful tool for managing and understanding the complexities of innovation, helping leaders navigate through different innovation challenges.
The model also emphasises the importance of context, underscoring that what works in one situation may not work in another. It encourages leaders to recognise the nature of different problems and respond accordingly, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. This tailored approach can lead to more effective innovation management.
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