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WHAT ARE STORMS?
STORM stands for Situational Turbulence from Overload, Risk, and Multiplexity—a framework within PRISM that categorizes challenges into five levels based on their complexity, interdependencies, and potential impact.
These levels range from Basic (Level 1), where problems are routine and solutions are clear, to Strategic (Level 5), where decisions have far-reaching, long-term consequences and require deep analysis, adaptability, and precise execution.
STORMs are a natural part of any dynamic environment and aren’t inherently negative—but understanding, preparation, and adaptability are key to navigating them effectively and achieving targeted outcomes.
LEVEL 1
CONTAINED DISRUPTION
PRISM and other strategic tools are typically unnecessary for these situations & standard processes are recommended.
At this level, situations are predictable in scope but require attention due to a non-standard disruption. The defining characteristic is that both the problem and solution are clear, even if execution requires effort. These challenges typically arise when something unexpected happens within an otherwise familiar process.
Since these situations remain self-contained, standard approaches are usually sufficient to resolve them. Risk and reward are reasonably balanced, and setbacks can be corrected without extensive planning or strategic realignment. Success primarily depends on executing known steps properly rather than managing complexity, navigating uncertainty, or coordinating across multiple stakeholders.
LEVEL 2
CONTAINED DISRUPTION(S) WITH RIPPLE EFFECTS
Some use of select PRISM tools may be helpful but are generally not necessary.
This level marks the transition from isolated disruptions to situations that require deliberate attention and coordination. While challenges at this stage are still manageable with standard approaches, they cannot be solved through routine execution alone. The key differentiator is that the consequences extend beyond the immediate issue, affecting multiple teams, processes, or systems—but in relatively predictable ways.
These situations often involve familiar challenges with added variables, such as workflow dependencies, stakeholder alignment, or external constraints that require more thoughtful coordination. Success depends on recognizing that while the situation isn’t highly complex, treating it too casually or failing to address the broader impact can create avoidable risks and inefficiencies.
LEVEL 3
EMERGING INTERDEPENDENCIES & COMPLEXTIES
Foundational PRISM-OS processes and tools are recommended.
At this level, challenges are no longer just about managing a disruption—they involve multiple interdependencies that aren't immediately obvious. The defining characteristic is that different elements influence each other in ways that can be overlooked without careful analysis, creating unintended consequences if not addressed properly.
The complexity here doesn’t stem from a single difficult factor but rather from the relationships between moving parts—such as technical dependencies, interpersonal dynamics, or resource interactions. While the problem may seem familiar at first glance, the interactions between variables introduce a level of complexity that requires deeper consideration.
Success depends on identifying these connections early and planning accordingly. The key differentiator from lower STORM levels is that oversimplification becomes a major risk factor—attempting to apply standard solutions without fully recognizing the interdependencies can lead to cascading failures, inefficiencies, or unintended consequences.
LEVEL 4
DYNAMIC VARIABLES & CONTINUOUS ADAPTION
The full PRISM OS is strongly recommended.
At this level, challenges are no longer just about managing interdependencies—they involve variables that are actively shifting throughout implementation. The defining characteristic is the dynamic nature of both the situation and its broader context—where factors that were stable at the start may evolve, requiring ongoing adjustments.
These situations require both comprehensive planning and flexible execution, as external factors—such as market shifts, regulatory changes, or shifting stakeholder priorities—begin to play a more significant role. The ability to sense, interpret, and respond to change becomes as critical as the initial planning itself. Failing to adjust quickly can lead to misaligned dependencies, resource strain, and strategic drift, making adaptability a key differentiator between success and failure.
LEVEL 5
STRATEGIC DECISIONS WITH LONG-TERM IMPACTS
The full PRISM OS is strongly recommended.
At this highest level, challenges don’t just impact execution—they shape the future direction of an organization, system, or industry. The defining characteristic is not just complexity, but the depth of its impact—decisions made at this stage can fundamentally alter how things work and have long-term strategic consequences.
What sets this level apart is that success isn’t just about solving the problem—it’s about ensuring you’re solving the right problem at the right level. Misframing the issue at this stage can lead to massive opportunity costs, wasted resources, and long-term setbacks that take years to correct.
These situations require balancing deep analysis with adaptability, as both the problem space and potential solutions are likely to evolve. The stakes are high, not just in terms of immediate execution, but in shaping organizational direction, market positioning, and competitive advantage. Strategic missteps at this level can be difficult—if not impossible—to fully recover from, making precision, foresight, and flexibility critical to success.
