Lab

Experiments

Small-scale tests and prototypes. Learning by doing, with transparency about what works and what doesn't.

Learning by doing

Experiments are how we test ideas before committing to them at scale. They're deliberately small, time-bound, and designed to generate learning - not just results.

We document our experiments openly, including the ones that don't work. Failure isn't something to hide; it's information that helps us - and others - make better decisions.

Concepts in the open

SignalNet
six ways of knowing
Experiment · Concept 2026
Working Draft

SignalNet

A sensemaking observatory — not a prediction tool, not a dashboard

A working concept for holding six ways of knowing in tension: cold data, thick data, warm data, weak signals, dark data, and social silences. Practitioner-led, braided with knowledge traditions institutional frames have historically refused. This is an early experiment — expect rough edges, shifting ideas, and open questions.

Explore the concept

What else we're testing

Prototyping 2026
Active

Asynchronous Deliberation

Testing whether structured asynchronous formats can produce the same quality of collective decision-making as in-person dialogue, while being more accessible.

Field Testing 2025-26
Active

Narrative Impact Assessment

Exploring whether story-based documentation can capture systemic change in ways that traditional metrics miss.

Synthesizing 2025
Completed

Distributed Facilitation

Testing a model where facilitation responsibility rotates among participants rather than resting with a designated facilitator.

What we've learned

Each experiment generates insights - some expected, some surprising. We compile these learnings and share them openly so others can build on our work without starting from scratch.

Check back as we document our findings from ongoing experiments.

Want to experiment together?

We're always looking for partners who want to test new approaches. If you have an experiment in mind - or want to collaborate on one of ours - let's talk.

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