Jim Rutt defines 'sensemaking' as the intricate process by which individuals or groups interpret, structure, and derive meaning from their experiences and surroundings to navigate and understand complex environments. According to Rutt, sensemaking involves a dynamic interplay of perception, cognition, and communication, where people construct coherent narratives from disparate pieces of information. This process enables them to frame problems, identify patterns, and make informed decisions. Rutt emphasizes that sensemaking is not a linear or solitary activity but a continuous and collaborative practice, often occurring in the face of ambiguity and uncertainty. By engaging in sensemaking, individuals and collectives turn chaotic data into actionable insights, ensuring that their actions are both grounded in reality and adaptive to change.

See also: emergence, evolution, edge of chaos, proto b, free will