We distinguish between 3x3+1 modes (a total of 10) of crisis governance, guided by the question: How do we enter, navigate through, and emerge from the crisis in a way that leaves us stronger and better positioned than before?
Entering the Crisis (Modes 1-3)
1. Reactive preparation for arrival. How do we frame the crisis? How do we call it out? How do we switch to crisis mode?
2. Communicating proactively to awaken resilience and focus on what is critical and crucial
3. Creatively coordinating, awakening and bringing together the ideas, solutions and resources that lie dormant within and between us
Going through the crisis (Modes 4-6)
4. Co-creative collaboration, because we can only succeed together and need participation for empowerment and personal responsibility
5. Consultative co-decision, because we should weigh up and make fundamental decisions together
6. Vitalizing recalibration, because our value compass must be constantly readjusted and strengthened during the crisis
Coming out the crisis (Modes 7-9)
7. Reflective reappraisal, because mistakes lead to injuries and injustices that need to be healed and compensated for
8. Regenerative revision, because the crisis is only overcome when we look to the future with optimism again
9. Rehabilitative celebration and remembrance, honoring those deserving of honor. Together, we pause to give thanks, remember, and celebrate
And getting well beyond (Modes 10)
10. Sustainable institutionalization: How do we ensure that we become + remain permanently crisis-resilient?
When working with this canvas, it is not necessary to evaluate or plan for all 10 modes at once. Instead, begin by considering where you currently are on the curve. What has been managed well or poorly so far? (Tip: Use traffic light colors – green, yellow, and red – for visualization.) Assess how well-equipped you are for the upcoming steps of shared crisis management. Use sticky notes to gather and assign ideas for evaluation and planning. Want to learn more about crisis governance? Visit https://lernende-demokratie.de/en/krisen-governance/
You can find the German Canvas here.
You can find the English Canvas here.
You can find the Spanish Canvas here.