Cynefin Classification

Classify by cause-effect, then use only the matching response mode. Wrong-domain method is the failure mode.

When to Use

• Unsure whether to run a playbook, analyze, probe, or stabilize.
• A method keeps failing and domain mismatch is plausible.
• A novel or mixed problem needs approach selection before solution work.

When NOT to Use

• Domain and method are already agreed—execute.
• Task is finding a specific cause, not choosing an approach.
• Classification done; switch to the domain method—do not re-label endlessly.
• Pure mechanical edits with no approach uncertainty.

Procedure