| name | cynefin-classify |
| description | Use when facing a new problem to classify its domain (Clear, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, Disorder) and select appropriate methods. |
Cynefin Classify Skill
Classify problem domain and route to appropriate methods.
Workflow
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Describe the problem in neutral terms.
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Ask diagnostic questions:
- Can we predict the outcome of actions? (Yes=Clear/Complicated, No=Complex/Chaotic)
- Do experts agree on the approach? (Yes=Clear, Somewhat=Complicated, No=Complex)
- Is the situation stable? (Yes=Clear/Complicated/Complex, No=Chaotic)
- Has this been solved before? (Yes=Clear, Similar=Complicated, No=Complex)
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Classify into one of five domains using cynefin-routing.md.
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Select methods appropriate to the domain:
- Clear: Best practice, checklists, automation
- Complicated: Expert analysis, options evaluation, technical spikes
- Complex: Safe-to-fail probes, experiments, continuous discovery
- Chaotic: Stabilize, act, then reassess
- Disorder: Decompose into classifiable parts
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Cross-reference with Wardley evolution if strategic context is available.
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Output:
## Cynefin Classification
Problem: [description]
Domain: [Clear/Complicated/Complex/Chaotic/Disorder]
Confidence: [High/Medium/Low]
Rationale: [why this classification]
Recommended methods:
- [method 1]
- [method 2]
Warning signs of misclassification:
- [what would indicate we got it wrong]
Theory Citations
- Snowden: Cynefin framework
- Wardley: Evolution mapping
