5.1.3 Principles Of Method—Initial View
We have characterised the nature of wicked problems, examined how decision-makers think, and considered human cognitive limitations in regard to dynamic decision making, the role of stakeholders and gatekeepers, and the extant state of systems-thinking practice. It is now possible to enunciate a set of principles of method we might apply in addressing wicked problems. In outline, the principles of method are:
- Because some information will be hidden, ambiguous, compartmentalised, or deliberately withheld, or access controlled, we need highly effective ways of:
- identifying what information might be needed; and
- winning the essential information.
- Because systemic behaviour is determined by problem structure, we need tools and techniques that enable information processing in ways that facilitate pattern recognition, and identification of underlying systemic structures, that is, identification of:
- the relevant feedback and delay mechanisms;
- feedback mechanisms which dominate the currently operating dynamics, and the mechanisms producing that dominance;
- how feedback loop dominance might shift with changing circumstances; and
- pressure points to which risk-management effort might be applied.
- Because of the likelihood of mis-communication inherent in iteratively navigating our way around the Decision Cycle, Figure 1-8, and the consequences even slight mis-communication can bring, we need to build and maintain effective communications skills.
- Because of the profound importance of gaining deep insights, building understanding and learning, we need to proceed through every stage with the aims of:
- revising mental models in ways that are:
- accurate,
- timely, and
- relevant.
- providing validation and adjustment, as necessary, of decision-makers’ systems of meaning;
- enabling mental agility;
- informing decision making; and
- leading to commitment to take action.
- Because of their critical roles in the ultimate implementation of risk mitigation strategies, we need to involve key stakeholders and those gatekeepers identified as potentially militant, as fully as their busy schedules allow, always aware of the influence they can exert.
- Because insights and learning are fundamental to our task, we should consider what is being learned at each stage, such learning should:
- be reflective,
- be deliberately planned, and
- enable decision-makers to learn their way into an unknowable future.