The Amoeba model for wicked problem-solving builds upon a foundation of collective intelligence, human-centered exploration, and cross-disciplinary research. It has evolved from the Kiose framework, a startup incubator and resource collective that uses innovative methods to accelerate projects and deliver solutions with positive societal impact.

Amoeba: Wicked Problem Solving

What is Amoeba? Amoeba creates organic, real-time, collective intelligences (like groups of people working together as one) around a topic, challenge, or problem. These amoebas are built from the perspective of the person or group affected by the issue, ensuring that all insights and solutions come from a place of lived experience. By doing this, Amoeba gains a holistic understanding of the problem—seeing it from every angle that matters to the people involved.

The Evolution: From Kiose to Amoeba

Amoeba evolved from the Kiose framework which focuses on fast-tracking innovative ideas and solutions for societal good. Kiose applies behavioral economics, game theory, chaos theory, and agile methods to create powerful, adaptable solutions.At the core of both Kiose and Amoeba is adaptability—the ability to adapt, investigate, and research each problem from a human-centered approach. This approach is all about curiosity and discovery, where the goal is to uncover hidden costs, unknown facts, and create those "aha" moments where breakthroughs happen.

What Makes Amoeba Different?

Human-Centered Exploration: Amoeba works from the perspective of those affected by the problem, ensuring solutions are meaningful and relevant.It combines diverse fields of knowledge like behavioral economics and chaos theory to adapt and tackle even the most complex problems (wicked problems).
‍Real-Time Collective Intelligence:Instead of a top-down solution, Amoeba gathers insights from all participants, across various disciplines, sectors, and industries. These insights are collected during Glimmer Events (short, idea-sparking meetings) and compiled into actionable intelligence.
‍Cross-Disciplinary Research & Tools:Amoeba uses a set of tools and methodologies from behavioral economics, game theory, and chaos theory to analyze and investigate issues in real time, uncovering new possibilities and connections.With innovative tools, it can discover hidden costs and opportunities while having fun in the process, which keeps the sessions engaging and impactful.
‍Transparency and Recognition:Every Amoeba event starts with a presentation of the people who helped build the initiative: the hosts, sponsors, graphic designers, speakers—ensuring everyone gets fair recognition.This approach is part of the "pay it forward" culture, ensuring that every contribution is valued and celebrated.
‍Fair Economy and Compensation:Amoeba operates with a shared profit model, where all contributors (hosts, facilitators, space providers, activity leaders) are compensated fairly. This ensures equity and fairness at every event, incentivizing collaboration.

How Does Amoeba Tackle Wicked Problems?

Wicked problems—complex societal challenges that seem unsolvable due to their intertwined nature—are often viewed as impossible to solve. But Amoeba has found a way to tackle them:
Holistic Understanding: By collecting insights from those most affected, Amoeba paints a complete picture of the issue, revealing angles and aspects that traditional methods might overlook.
Systemic and Adaptive Solutions: Wicked problems require flexibility and a deep understanding of interconnected factors. Amoeba adapts its approach in real-time based on what is learned during sessions, ensuring that solutions evolve alongside the problem.
Cross-Disciplinary Wisdom: Wicked problems need multiple perspectives to be solved. Amoeba taps into the wisdom of professionals from diverse fields—combining insights from areas like sustainability, technology, health, and economics to address the full scope of the challenge.
Fun and Engagement: The process itself is designed to be engaging and enjoyable. Participants not only tackle big issues but also build connections and enjoy the collaborative process. This keeps energy high and fosters continuous engagement.
Amoeba is more than just a problem-solving model—it is a living, adaptable framework that empowers people to collectively tackle complex issues from a human-centered perspective. By blending cross-disciplinary research, innovation, and transparency, Amoeba creates an environment where everyone’s contributions matter, and together, they find meaningful, sustainable solutions.