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The Cynefin framework: navigating complexity in UX
Why complexity matters and how to handle it well.
As a UX Lead, my team and I are constantly faced with the challenges of navigating complex and challenging scenarios. Whether it’s designing a new product, improving an existing one, or simply trying to keep up with the latest technology advances, there is always a lot to consdier.
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that it’s important to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable ones.
When tackling less complex problems, there are several blueprints to follow, helping to identify the key user needs & goals, and developing solutions that address those needs in a clear, concise way.
When faced with nebulous and complex problems there are conceptual frameworks available in this article i’ll cover the Cynefin framework to help think through complexity in a more helpful way.
It’s also important to understand the difference between complex and complicated—something i’ll dive into below. Navigating complexity is not easy, but it’s possible with careful planning and execution.
