fornæmnastjórnun

Fornæmnastjórnun, an Icelandic term, translates to "presumption management" or "management of presuppositions" in English. It refers to a conceptual framework or practice that involves identifying, analyzing, and consciously managing the underlying assumptions or presuppositions that influence decision-making, problem-solving, and communication within an organization or group. These presuppositions are often unstated beliefs, expectations, or cognitive biases that shape how individuals perceive reality and interact with each other.

The core idea behind fornæmnastjórnun is that unexamined presuppositions can lead to suboptimal outcomes, misunderstandings, and resistance to change. By actively bringing these assumptions to the surface, individuals and groups can gain a clearer understanding of their own thinking processes and the thinking processes of others. This allows for a more critical evaluation of these assumptions and the potential to challenge or modify them if they are found to be inaccurate, limiting, or detrimental.

The practice of fornæmnastjórnun often involves techniques such as facilitated discussions, brainstorming sessions focused on "what if" scenarios, and exercises designed to uncover hidden beliefs. The goal is not necessarily to eliminate all presuppositions, as they are a natural part of human cognition, but rather to ensure they are recognized and that decisions are made with a full awareness of the underlying mental models at play. This can foster greater innovation, improve collaboration, and lead to more robust and effective strategies.