Karl E. Weick

Overview

Sensemaking by Karl E. Weick is a book that explores the process of sensemaking, which is the way individuals and organizations make sense of the world around them. Weick argues that sensemaking is a fundamental aspect of human nature and is crucial for both personal and collective decision-making. Through a series of case studies and examples, he presents key insights into how sensemaking occurs, its limitations, and the implications it has for understanding organizations and their behavior.

Key Points / Ideas

1. Sensemaking as an ongoing process:

Weick emphasizes that sensemaking is not a one-time event but rather an ongoing process. People continuously make sense of their experiences and the information they encounter, constructing narratives and creating meaning to make sense of the world around them. This ongoing process is influenced by various factors, including past experiences, social interactions, and the context in which sensemaking occurs.

2. Retrospective sensemaking:

Weick introduces the concept of retrospective sensemaking, which refers to the tendency to make sense of events after they have occurred. He argues that retrospective sensemaking is a natural response to uncertainty and ambiguity, allowing individuals and organizations to create a sense of order and coherence from chaotic situations. By analyzing the past, sensemakers construct narratives that provide a basis for future actions.

3. Sensemaking as an enacted process:

Weick proposes that sensemaking is not just a cognitive process undertaken in isolation but also an enacted process that involves social interaction. Through communication and collective interpretation of events, individuals come together to make sense of their shared experiences and coordinate their actions. This social aspect of sensemaking highlights the importance of dialogue and collaboration in organizations.

Significant Evidence and Examples

Weick supports his arguments with various case studies and examples throughout the book. For example, he examines the sensemaking process in the Mann Gulch fire disaster, where firefighters struggled to make sense of the rapidly changing situation. Weick illustrates how the individuals' preconceived mental models and the lack of shared understanding impeded effective decision-making. By analyzing this tragic event, Weick sheds light on the complexities and challenges of sensemaking in high-stakes situations.

Furthermore, Weick draws on numerous other examples, such as the NASA Challenger space shuttle disaster and the Enron scandal, to highlight the importance of sensemaking and its impact on organizational behavior and decision-making. These real-world examples provide concrete evidence for his arguments and demonstrate the practical implications of sensemaking in various contexts.

Conclusion

Sensemaking by Karl E. Weick offers valuable insights into the process of sensemaking and its implications for individuals and organizations. The book highlights how sensemaking is an ongoing, retrospective, and enacted process, shaped by various factors and influenced by social interactions. Weick's use of case studies and examples enriches the reader's understanding of sensemaking and its complexities.

To delve deeper into the topic of sensemaking, readers are encouraged to explore Weick's original work and other related books, such as "Organizing and the Process of Sensemaking" edited by Weick, Sutcliffe, and Obstfeld. These resources provide a comprehensive understanding of sensemaking and its practical applications in various domains.