Cynefin Domain Finder

The Cynefin framework helps classify situations correctly — and pick the right action strategy. Not every problem needs the same solution.

Dave Snowden thecynefin.co (1999)

What is Cynefin?

Cynefin (Welsh for "habitat", pronounced "kuh-NEV-in") is a sense-making framework developed by Dave Snowden. It distinguishes five domains, each requiring a different kind of problem-solving.

The 5 domains

  • Clear — Cause and effect are obvious. Act: sense → categorize → respond. Apply best practice.
  • Complicated — Cause and effect can be analyzed. Act: sense → analyze → respond. Bring in experts.
  • Complex — Cause and effect only visible in hindsight. Act: probe → sense → respond. Experiment.
  • Chaotic — No discernible cause and effect. Act: act → sense → respond. Stabilize immediately.
  • Disorder — Unclear which domain you are in. The greatest danger: everyone applies their comfort zone.

Domain diagnosis

Describe your challenge and answer 5 questions to identify the right Cynefin domain.

5 diagnostic questions

Inspiriert von Dave Snowden — Cynefin Framework

Applied to

Weiterlesen

Trivia

  • Cynefin is a Welsh word meaning "habitat" or "place of multiple belongings".
  • Dave Snowden developed the framework in 1999 while at IBM Global Services.
  • The "Simple" domain was renamed "Clear" in 2020 — because nothing is ever really "simple".
  • The most dangerous state is "Disorder" — because everyone unconsciously applies their favorite domain.
  • Cynefin is not a categorization tool, but a sense-making framework — the difference is critical.