cynefin

Classifies problems into Cynefin domains and routes them to appropriate decision methods.

Updated May 31, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ithaloazevedo/pm-loadout --skill cynefin-ithaloazevedo
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: cynefin
Source: https://github.com/ithaloazevedo/pm-loadout/tree/main/.agents/skills/cynefin
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ithaloazevedo/pm-loadout --skill cynefin-ithaloazevedo

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve? When facing a new product or business problem, teams often apply the wrong approach—using best practices on complex challenges or over-analyzing simple ones. This Skill classifies the problem's domain so you select methods that actually fit the situation. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Domain Classification: Uses diagnostic questions to categorize problems as Clear, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, or Confused. - Method Routing: Recommends appropriate methods per domain, from checklists and expert analysis to safe-to-fail experiments. - Liminal Zone Detection: Identifies transitional states between domains and warns about the Clear-to-Chaotic catastrophic fold caused by complacency. - Use Case: A product team debating whether to A/B test a feature or just ship it can classify the problem first—if it's Complicated, expert analysis suffices; if Complex, run small experiments instead. ## Quick Start Use the cynefin skill to classify my current product problem and recommend which methods I should apply.

Frequently Asked Questions about cynefin

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I classify a problem using the Cynefin framework?▼

Describe the problem neutrally, then answer diagnostic questions: Can you predict outcomes? Do experts agree? Is the situation stable? Has it been solved before? The answers map the problem to Clear, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, or Confused domains.

What methods should I use for each Cynefin domain?▼

Clear domains use best practices and checklists. Complicated domains need expert analysis and options evaluation. Complex domains require safe-to-fail experiments. Chaotic domains demand stabilization first. Confused domains should be decomposed into classifiable parts.

What are liminal zones in Cynefin?▼

Liminal zones are transitional states between adjacent domains where characteristics of both blend. For example, Complicated-to-Complex feels like experts disagreeing while new factors emerge, signaling a shift from analysis toward experimentation.

When should I not rely on best practices in Cynefin?▼

Avoid best practices outside the Clear domain. Complacent reliance on them—rigid rules, no feedback loops, dismissing edge cases—risks a catastrophic fold directly from Clear into Chaotic with no intermediate warning stage.

How does Cynefin classification relate to Wardley mapping?▼

The skill optionally cross-references Wardley evolution stages when strategic context is available, combining problem-domain classification with component evolution mapping for richer strategic decisions.