4.2 Lean Thinking

Question 1

What are weak signals and why are they important?

Answer 1

Weak signals are easily overlooked feedback about ways that a process might fail. Near misses, “Uh-oh” moments, and slowing down to be careful are all examples of weak signals. Detecting weak signals can show us how a process might fail before something catastrophic happens.

Question 2

What is the goal of the Cynefin Framework?

Answer 2

The Cynefin Framework helps to make sense of what kind of system we’re working with, so that we know what sorts of investigations and tools will be the most appropriate.

Question 3

Describe the difference between fast and slow thinking.

Answer 3

Fast thinking is automatic, effortless, emotional, biased, and necessary for survival in dynamic situations.
Slow thinking is intentional, effortful, logical, analytical, and necessary for detailed understanding of complex situations.

Question 4

What is Trystorming?

Answer 4

A combination of brainstorming and trying stuff. The goal is to fail quickly, cheaply, and safely while learning a lot.

Question 5

What are the three key elements of habits?

Answer 5

1. A cue that tells us to start the habit.
2. A routine that we go through automatically.
3. A reward for our brain to reinforce the habit. The reward is often a good feeling or removal of a negative stimulus. It must be immediate.