We use the Cynefin Framework in our cloud modernisation work.
Dave Snowden created the Cynefin framework. Cynefin, pronounced "ku-nev-in," is a Welsh word that translates as "place" or "habitat." However, it can also be used to describe the elements of our situation and personal history that influence our thoughts and decisions in ways we don't understand.
It's a sense making framework. As architects, we find that the Cynefin framework is a good thinking model.
In the Cynefin framework there are four domains and a fifth disorder domain. The first four domains are:
1. Clear, when something is well understood,
2. Complicated, it's understood by few,
3. Complex, where there are a lot of unknowns.
4. Chaos, when you don't know what's happening.
The 5th domain in the middle is called Confused.
If you understand which domain you're in, you can assess where you're at, and if you're not aware of where you are, you're just confused.
When you deal with situations and teams, it's sometimes easy to see the problem or situation. It falls under one of the domains and there are a bunch of practices to apply.
When something's well understood and clear, the practices are different than for something that's complex. There are different ways for you to handle situations. And if you're a manager, there are different ways to manage.
A chaotic project needs different practices to a project that you know well and when know what to do.
We explain each of the domains and we apply them to Software Development.
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Serverless Craic Ep53 Cynefin Framework