Sensemaking

1. Sensemaking: The Art of Cultural Inquiry in a Data-Driven World

Sensemaking is a method of practical wisdom grounded in the humanities.

Holistic understanding. Sensemaking is an approach that combines cultural inquiry, qualitative research, and humanities-based thinking to gain deeper insights into human behavior and social contexts. It stands in contrast to the reductionist, data-driven methods prevalent in today's business and technological landscape.

Five principles of sensemaking:

• Culture—not individuals
• Thick data—not just thin data
• The savannah—not the zoo
• Creativity—not manufacturing
• The North Star—not the GPS

This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding shared cultural meanings, rich contextual information, real-world observations, creative insights, and holistic perspectives in making sense of complex human phenomena.

2. The Limitations of Silicon Valley's Algorithmic Thinking

When we focus solely on hard data and natural science methods—when we attempt to quantify human behavior only as so many quarks or widgets—we erode our sensitivity to all the forms of knowledge that are not reductionist.

Critique of tech-centric worldview. The author argues that the Silicon Valley mindset, with its emphasis on algorithms, big data, and disruptive innovation, often fails to capture the nuances of human experience and cultural context.

Limitations of algorithmic thinking:

• Overreliance on quantitative data
• Neglect of cultural and historical knowledge
• Assumption that all problems can be solved through technology
• Disregard for the value of humanities-based education

This narrow focus on STEM-based knowledge and technological solutions can lead to a superficial understanding of human behavior and societal challenges, potentially resulting in misguided strategies and products.

3. Understanding Cultures, Not Just Individuals

We are, all of us, situated in a context. If we are to understand human behavior, then we must understand context, an argument for the holistic versus the atomized.

Shared worlds and background practices. The author emphasizes the importance of studying cultures and social contexts rather than focusing solely on individual behaviors or preferences. This approach, grounded in phenomenology and social theory, reveals the shared meanings and practices that shape human experience.

Key concepts:

• Background practices: The unspoken rules and assumptions that govern behavior in a given culture
• Chains of meaning: The interconnected web of meanings that objects and actions have within a cultural context
• Worlds: The shared social realities that people inhabit and through which they make sense of their experiences

By understanding these cultural dimensions, organizations can gain more profound insights into their customers, employees, and stakeholders, leading to more effective strategies and solutions.

4. The Power of Thick Data in Revealing Human Truths

Thick data captures not just facts but the context of those facts.

Rich contextual information. Thick data refers to qualitative, contextual information that provides depth and meaning to quantitative data points. It helps reveal the "why" behind human behavior and cultural phenomena.

Four types of knowledge:

1. Objective knowledge: Measurable, verifiable facts
2. Subjective knowledge: Personal opinions and feelings
3. Shared knowledge: Cultural understandings and social norms
4. Sensory knowledge: Bodily and intuitive ways of knowing

By synthesizing these different types of knowledge, sensemakers can develop a more nuanced and holistic understanding of human behavior and social contexts. This approach allows for insights that go beyond surface-level observations and statistical correlations, revealing deeper truths about human experience and motivation.

5. Immersing in Real-World Contexts: The Savannah, Not the Zoo

Go back "to the thing itself." Instead of watching the lions eating food from a bowl in a cage, go out and observe them hunting on the savannah. Escape the zoo.

Real-world observation. The author advocates for immersing oneself in the actual contexts where human behavior occurs, rather than relying on controlled environments or abstract data.

Benefits of real-world immersion:

• Reveals unexpected patterns and connections
• Provides rich, contextual information
• Allows for a more holistic understanding of phenomena
• Challenges preconceived notions and assumptions

This approach, inspired by phenomenology, emphasizes the importance of direct experience and observation in understanding human behavior and cultural phenomena. It encourages researchers and decision-makers to step out of their comfort zones and engage with the messy, complex realities of the world.

6. Creativity as a Receptive State of Grace, Not Manufactured Will

Ideas are like gifts that the world bestows on us rather than creations we summon through force of will when we need them.

Receptive state of creativity. The author argues that true creativity emerges from a state of openness and receptivity, rather than through forced, linear processes or brainstorming techniques.

Characteristics of creative grace:

• Openness to unexpected insights
• Immersion in the subject matter
• Ability to synthesize diverse information
• Receptivity to intuitive knowledge

This approach contrasts with the "design thinking" model popular in many industries, which the author criticizes as overly prescriptive and detached from real-world contexts. Instead, sensemaking encourages cultivating a deep understanding of the subject matter and remaining open to unexpected connections and insights.

7. Leadership Through Perspective, Not Just Data Points

Sensemaking teaches us where to put our attention. We don't try to know everything; we work to make sense of something.

Cultivating perspective. Effective leadership in complex environments requires developing a nuanced perspective that goes beyond data analysis. This involves synthesizing diverse forms of knowledge and developing a holistic understanding of the situation.

Key leadership skills:

• Cultural interpretation
• Social intuition
• Analytical empathy
• Aesthetic judgment

By cultivating these skills, leaders can navigate complex situations more effectively, making decisions that account for the subtle cultural and social dynamics at play. This approach allows for more innovative and contextually appropriate solutions to challenges.

8. Mastering Sensemaking: Becoming a Cultural Connoisseur

Mastery—connaissance—is a way of navigating through a body of knowledge.

Developing cultural expertise. The author describes the process of becoming a "connoisseur" of cultural knowledge, able to navigate complex social and cultural landscapes with sophistication and insight.

Stages of sensemaking mastery:

1. Developing analytical categories for social and cultural phenomena
2. Recognizing subtle patterns and relationships
3. Cultivating aesthetic judgment and interpretive skills
4. Applying insights to navigate complex situations

This process of mastery involves continuous learning, reflection, and engagement with diverse cultural contexts. By developing these skills, individuals and organizations can become more adept at understanding and responding to the complex human dynamics that shape our world.

Last updated: November 6, 2024