Interactive course

The CSDEC Framework

A Structured System Design Thinking Framework

7 sectionsEstimated 45 min

01 / 07

From principles to a method

Module 1 established three principles. Now we will turn them into a repeatable framework.

Three principles

A framework is scaffolding

Imagine constructing a building. Scaffolding is not the building, but it makes disciplined construction possible. CSDEC plays the same role in System Design. With enough practice, the moves become internal.

The five CSDEC moves

02 / 07C · Clarify

03 / 07S · Scope

04 / 07D · Design

05 / 07

06 / 07C · Communicate

07 / 07

Module summary

Review the five CSDEC moves and the question each one answers.

Clarify

Remove false understanding

What might I have misunderstood?

Scope

Control ambition

What will we do now, and what will we not do?

Design

Assign responsibilities

What owns each responsibility, and how does data flow?

Evaluate

Choose under constraints

Which option has the most acceptable cost here?

Communicate

Lower understanding cost

Can someone else follow the decision with minimal effort?

Core ideas

A framework is scaffolding. The goal is to internalise the moves, not to follow a checklist mechanically forever.