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Core Concepts

Understanding these core concepts will help you effectively apply the CMDS methodology.

Knowledge Transformation​

At its core, CMDS is about transforming knowledge:

Raw Knowledge → Structured Insights → Actionable Products

This transformation happens through four interconnected stages.

The CMDS Cycle​

CMDS is not strictly linear. Projects often iterate between stages:

graph LR
    C[Connect] --> M[Merge]
    M --> D[Develop]
    D --> S[Share]
    S --> C
    M --> C
    D --> M

Key Principles​

  1. Iterative Process - Return to earlier stages as needed
  2. Documentation - Record decisions and rationale at each stage
  3. Connection - Maintain links between related concepts
  4. Output Focus - Always work toward tangible deliverables

Stage Characteristics​

Connect​

  • Input: Observations, questions, curiosities
  • Output: Theme maps, research questions
  • Key Tools: Mind mapping, brainstorming, literature scanning

Merge​

  • Input: Literature, existing knowledge
  • Output: Conceptual frameworks, synthesis
  • Key Tools: Systematic review, concept mapping

Develop​

  • Input: Frameworks, hypotheses
  • Output: Data, prototypes, methodologies
  • Key Tools: Research methods, analysis tools

Share​

  • Input: Findings, products
  • Output: Publications, partnerships, impact
  • Key Tools: Writing, presentation, networking

Quality Criteria​

Each stage has quality indicators:

StageQuality Indicator
ConnectComprehensiveness of theme coverage
MergeRigor of synthesis process
DevelopValidity of methodology
ShareReach and impact of outputs

Next Steps​