In rapid, unpredictable change no one has time for complicated tools or obtuse theories. Complex times require simple strategies. HSD Models & Methods are as simple as they are powerful.

A model helps you see a system from a particular perspective. A method gives you options for action. HSD provides a collection of Models & Methods. Each one of them supports action in three ways by improving perception, sense making, and action in unpredictable and uncontrollable situations.

We acknowledge the scholars and practitioners who came before us and laid a foundation on which HSD is based. Per Bak, Ilya Prigogine, Stuart Kauffman, Jack Cohen, Brenda Zimmerman, Ralph Stacy, Dave Snowden, Kevin Dooley, Jeff Goldstein, and many more have informed and enlivened this work. We also thank the 650 certified HSD Professionals who use, adapt, adjust, and enhance the M&Ms as they support their clients around the world.

In this website, you will see the HSD Models & Methods in many contexts:

  • Case stories, where our clients used them to untangle intractable issues
  • Guides to action that give you worksheets and protocols for launching your own Adaptive Actions
  • Virtual workshops and videos where expert learners share their experiences
  • Information sheets that give you the What? So what? and Now what? of the most powerful HSD Models & Methods

When you are ready to move from introduction to action, join one of our Adaptive Action Labs where you will deepen your theory and apply your practice. Come with a sticky issue, and leave with a plan for wise and effective action.

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Your HSD Practice

Find your own Adaptive Action path through your specific sector or through you particular sticky issue.

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Take Action

Build your own Adaptive Action plan as you attend an Adaptive Action Lab that meets your needs.

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Related Resources

 

Adaptive Action

Adaptive Action is an iterative, deceptively simple planning process that allows you to move forward in uncertainty. When you feel like you cannot move forward because you don't know what to do, you can always use Adaptive Action to identify your next wise action.
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Generative Engagement

Generative Engagement sets conditions for people to create mutual learning and transformation. It opens shared space so each person has what they need to participate in and contribute to the full functioning of a whole group. Every generative engagement is unique, because it emerges to fit patterns in the moment. We have found, though, that shared identity, a balance of power and influence, and shared voice are conditions that can usually shape patterns of Generative Engagement.
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Same and Different

Same and different is a way to identify patterns in what may seem to be random activity. In our book, Adaptive Action, Leveraging Uncertainty in Your Organization , we define patterns as similarities, differences, and connections that have meaning across space and time. When you begin to identify those things that are similar and different in your sticky issue, you begin to name the patterns you see.
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