Crisis Engineering: Time-Tested Tools for Turning Chaos into Clarity

When systems break down, traditional playbooks often fail. This field guide, authored by experienced crisis managers Mikey Dickerson, Marina Nitze, and Matthew Weaver, offers a powerful framework for navigating and transforming high-stakes crises. Drawing on real-world examples from HealthCare.gov rescues to pandemic logistics, the book provides practical tools and insights into how complex systems fail and how to facilitate their recovery.

At the core of this approach is sensemaking – the crucial human process that drives understanding, action, and ultimately, change. Whether you operate in tech, government, healthcare, or any other critical sector, this book equips you with the mindset, tools, and vocabulary to lead with clarity and drive lasting transformation during challenging times.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Learn to identify the 5 signals of a true crisis to create space for lasting reform.
• Understand why traditional leadership instincts falter under pressure and discover alternative strategies.
• Master techniques for rapidly converging on a shared reality in chaotic, high-visibility situations.
• Recognize crises not just as disasters to endure, but as rare opportunities for meaningful transformation.

Specifications:

• Author(s): Nitze, Marina; Dickerson, Mikey; Weaver, Matthew
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
• Publication Date: April 30, 2026
• Language: English
• Format: Paperback
• Page Count: 336 pages
• ISBN-10: 0306836866
• ISBN-13: 978-0306836862
• Dimensions: 13.72 x 2.54 x 20.57 cm
• Weight: 310 g

Crisis Engineering provides essential guidance for leaders seeking to manage complex failures and emerge stronger.