Falk HirdesCore Framework
Navigating Arenas of Change
Not another change methodology. A navigation system. It helps you figure out which arena you're operating in — then choose the right existing tools for that specific context.
3D Framework Diagram
[Visual placeholder — GO × FC × LE coordinate system]
5 × 2 × 2 = 20 arenas
Three Dimensions
GO — Grade of Organization5 levels
Change behaves differently at each level. What works for a team of eight won't scale to a department of eight hundred. The framework starts by asking: where in the organization are you actually operating?
FC — Focus of Change2 types
Strategic change is like surfing — you see the wave coming, you position, you commit. Tactical change is like cycling through Beijing traffic — continuous micro-adjustments, negotiated in real time. Both are change. They require completely different skills.
LE — Level of Enablement2 levels
Are you navigating your own change, or helping someone else navigate theirs? The skills overlap but the stance is fundamentally different. Most frameworks ignore this distinction.
Key Concepts
BANI > VUCA
The world isn't just volatile and uncertain — it's Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, and Incomprehensible. BANI is the operating condition. The framework is built for it.
Curiosity → Passion → Change
The CPC progression. Change doesn't start with a burning platform. It starts with someone getting curious enough to look closer.
Pattern Breakers
Four levers for shifting behavior: Personal Skill, Personal Motivation, Structural Signals, Social Signals. Pull the wrong lever, nothing moves.
Negotiated Flow
Falk's concept for tactical change navigation. Inspired by cycling Beijing traffic — continuous, responsive, co-created movement without central control.
Wave vs. Flow
Surfing for strategic change, cycling for tactical. Two metaphors that capture fundamentally different dynamics of navigating transformation.
Resilience < Relevance
Bouncing back isn't enough. The real question is whether you're still relevant after the change. Resilience is survival. Relevance is thriving.