• Linear thinking

  "The process of thought following known cycles of step-by-step progression where a response to a step must be elicited before another step is taken"

  • A then B then C
  • If A = B, and B = C, then A = C
  • B is a necessary result of A

  Advantage: fast and effective when data and processes are known

  Limitation: it often leads to linear bias and first-order thinking. A low-tech and highly effective technique for fighting linear bias is data visualization.

• Second-order thinking

  "The process of thought following and unraveling the implications of first-order impacts"

  • A then B and potentially C
  • A may result in B and C
  • B is a more likely result than C

  Advantage: avoids pitfalls of linear first-order thinking by exploring more avenues

  Limitation: Rarely leads to novel connections between ideas

• Networked thinking

  "The process of thought considering the complex interactions between nodes and connections in a given problem space"

  • A is connected to B and C
  • B and C may influence A
  • Connecting B and C may improve A

  Advantage: leads to creative ideas and novel thought patterns

  Limitation: exploratory nature makes it unreliable for effective problem-solving (convergence)

Tools for applying networked thinking:

Idea sex

Thinking in maps

Connecting ideas with a mental atlas