Cognitive Scaffold

Preparing your thinking workspace

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MENTAL MODEL · M2012

Nemawashi

Nemawashi
DecideHigh supportDecision Science
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Literally meaning 'to dig around the roots of a tree before transplanting it', it refers to the practice of informally communicating with all stakeholders privately before a formal meeting decision, listening to opinions, and reaching consensus.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

- Process lubrication: Formal meetings are not for 'discussion' but for 'rubber-stamping'. The real decisions are made in the pre-meeting 'nemawashi'. This avoids conflict and deadlock in meetings.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

'Nemawashi' refers to the process of thoroughly communicating and reaching consensus privately at the grassroots level before a decision, and then formally presenting it to a meeting to reduce resistance. Silent beforehand, smooth during.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

  • link
    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NemawashiZH · Explicit
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