cynefin-classify

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

1. Describe the problem in neutral terms.

2. 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)

3. Classify into one of five domains using cynefin-routing.md.

4. 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

5. Cross-reference with Wardley evolution if strategic context is available.

6. 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