a sense-making and decision-making framework that helps leaders choose an approach based on the kind of situation they are facing, rather than assuming one best practice fits everything.
a method to differentiate problems that can be solved with analysis and problems that require experimentation and learning.
Systems
Zooming In: Parts
Contexts
Context
Response
clear/obvious
sense, categorize, and respond
complicated
sense, analyze, and respond
complex
probe, sense, and respond
chaotic
act, sense, and respond
disorder/confusion
sense-making (identify one of the other 4 contexts)
Relationships
Avoids
using “best practices” where judgment is needed
Avoids
treating routine work like a crisis (Sky is Falling?)