ABSTRACT
Sensemaking is the process by which people give meaning to an experience that is somehow at odds with expectations. Giving structure to the unknown enables action. A dynamic process, effective sensemaking is built upon cognitive flexibility, analogic reasoning, systems thinking, and creativity. Sensemaking enables identification of salient cues, making connections between data, creating a rational account, and then acting upon it. Whether an individual cognitive exercise or a social process, sensemaking is critical in implementation when situations are usually only partially structured and partially predictable. Sensemaking is an inherent, if implicit, part of the change process and is thus a critical skill for both consultant and team member. The most effective leaders and implementors can figure out the rules of the game while they are playing it.
