Dave Snowden - What Agile got Wrong, and Right!

In this session, Dave Snowden shares the fascinating origin story of the Cynefin framework, explaining how complexity theory applies to Agile practices. Why does Agile often fail in complex environments? How can project management evolve to handle unpredictability? Dave explores key Agile challenges and offers insights into avoiding common pitfalls.

Key Takeaways:

• Cynefin framework helps navigate complexity by understanding emergent behavior and context.
• Agile’s overemphasis on codification has led to misguided "copying" of complex systems' outcomes.
• Effective management in complexity involves continuous sense-making, not linear reporting.

Recommended Resources:

• "Knowledge Assets" – By Max H. Boisot. A defining book on knowledge management and decision support in complex systems. https://amzn.to/3TwhXI0
• "Managing Complexity (and Chaos) in Times of Crisis" – A field guide inspired by the Cynefin framework, offering practical advice for decision-makers. https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC123629
• "Handbook of Futures Studies"– By various authors, featuring Dave’s article on applying complex systems to futures thinking. https://www.elgaronline.com/edcollchap-oa/book/9781035301607/book-part-9781035301607-11.xm

Parting word of advice: "Pay attention to context. There are no context-free solutions."

Speaker Bio: Dave Snowden is the founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Cognitive Edge, and creator of the Cynefin framework, which is widely used to manage complex adaptive systems. He is a thought leader in applying complexity theory to organizations and Agile. Connect with Dave Snowden on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-snowden-2a93b/