VUCA or BANI? Navigating the complex world of IT projects
In a time when projects are becoming increasingly complex, dynamic, and unpredictable, many companies are looking for guidance. The VUCA model was long considered a helpful tool to provide managers with structure amidst chaos. But the world has moved on—and with it, our challenges. Does this make VUCA obsolete? And what is the BANI model all about?
The VUCA model: A classic in transition
Developed over 20 years ago in a military context, the VUCA model quickly became established in the business world. VUCA stands for:
- Volatility: The world is volatile and difficult to plan.
- Uncertainty: Decisions are made under unclear conditions.
- Complexity: Many interrelated influencing factors make it difficult to get an overview.
- Ambiguity: Situations can be interpreted in different ways.
In everyday project work – especially in the IT environment – VUCA helps identify uncertainties and find appropriate action strategies. Vision, understanding, clarity, and agility are the appropriate responses to the four VUCA challenges.
But is that still enough?
BANI – A model for the now
With the year 2020 and the global upheavals, a new model of thought emerged: BANI . American futurist Jamais Cascio introduced it as a response to a world that has become more fragile and emotional. BANI stands for:
- Brittle: Systems that seemed stable for a long time suddenly show cracks.
- Anxious: The constant uncertainty creates tension and inability to make decisions.
- Non-linear: Cause and effect are no longer clearly linked.
- Incomprehensible: The flood of information is overwhelming – we no longer recognize patterns.
BANI makes it clear: It's not just about dynamics, but also about emotional reactions and structural instabilities. This brings the human side more into focus.
When does which model help?
Neither model provides ready-made solutions, but they help define challenges more precisely. This is especially important in IT projects, where the exact problem often isn't clear. The models provide structure to make the chaos more tangible:
- VUCA is a good fit if you are looking for strategic direction: vision, clarity, understanding and agility create security.
- BANI offers a deeper analysis of current crisis mechanisms: It reveals emotional and systemic fault lines – and invites us to explore new ways of thinking.
Our recommendation: Think in models – but act in context
Whether VUCA or BANI, no model replaces the exploration of your individual project context. Use the terms as tools: They help you identify problems, sort out opinions, and develop solutions together.
And if you're not sure where to start, let's talk . With our experience in IT projects, we can help you find your bearings—and take the first step toward change.
