Integrating Problem Complexity, Learning Progression, and Base-N Architecture
A comprehensive framework for classifying problem complexity, mapping learning progression, and selecting appropriate mental model combinations for systematic problem-solving.
The HUMMBL Unified Tier Framework provides:
- Dual-Tier System: Problem Complexity Tiers (1-5) and Learning Progression Tiers (0-4)
- Quantitative Wickedness Scoring: 5-question assessment methodology (0-30 points)
- Base-N Selection Framework: Structured approach to mental model subset selection
- Empirical Foundation: Built on BASE120 validation (120 models at 9.1/10 quality)
✅ Problem Classification: Quantitative tier assessment from simple to super-wicked problems
✅ Learning Pathways: Structured progression from awareness to mastery
✅ Model Selection: Guidance for choosing appropriate mental model combinations
✅ Validation Evidence: Transparent confidence levels and empirical grounding
✅ Practical Application: Implementation protocols and decision trees
Main Document: HUMMBL_Unified_Tier_Framework_v1.0.md
- Problem Complexity Tiers - Tier 1 (Simple) through Tier 5 (Super-Wicked)
- Learning Progression Tiers - Tier 0 (Awareness) through Tier 4 (Master)
- Base-N Architecture - Base6 through BASE120
- Wickedness Scoring - 5-question assessment with worked examples
- Validation Evidence - BASE120 validation and confidence levels
- Attribution & IP - Credits and intellectual property
- Practical Application - For practitioners, researchers, and learners
- Implementation Protocols - Tier assessment and model selection
- Assess your problem using the 5-question wickedness scoring methodology
- Determine tier classification (0-30 points → Tier 1-5)
- Select Base-N level matching your learning tier and problem complexity
- Choose specific models from the validated BASE120 collection
- Apply systematically using implementation protocols
- Start with Base6 foundational models (Tier 1: Tool User)
- Progress through Base12 and Base24 as you gain experience
- Follow the learning pathway recommendations
- Practice with real problems and reflect on outcomes
- Review validation evidence and confidence levels
- Explore research applications
- Consider collaboration on planned empirical studies (Q1-Q2 2026)
| Tier | Classification | Score Range | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Simple | 0-9 points | Clear solutions, predictable outcomes |
| Tier 2 | Complicated | 10-14 points | Expert-solvable, many interdependent parts |
| Tier 3 | Complex | 15-19 points | Emergent behavior, adaptive approaches needed |
| Tier 4 | Wicked | 20-24 points | Stakeholder disagreement, no clear solutions |
| Tier 5 | Super-Wicked | 25-30 points | Time running out, no central authority |
| Tier | Level | Focus | Base-N Alignment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tier 0 | Pre-Learning (Awareness) | Recognition of value | Pre-Base6 |
| Tier 1 | Tool User (Beginner) | Single-model application | Base6 |
| Tier 2 | Integrator (Intermediate) | Multi-model synthesis | Base12-Base24 |
| Tier 3 | Architect (Advanced) | Framework design | Base24-Base36 |
| Tier 4 | Creator (Master) | Model innovation | Base36-BASE120 |
| Base-N | Model Count | Target User | Problem Tier Alignment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base6 | 6 models | Beginner | Tier 1-2 (Simple/Complicated) |
| Base12 | 12 models | Intermediate | Tier 2-3 (Complicated/Complex) |
| Base24 | 24 models | Professional | Tier 3-4 (Complex/Wicked) |
| Base36 | 36 models | Advanced | Tier 4-5 (Wicked/Super-Wicked) |
| Base42 | 42 models | Expert | Tier 5 (Super-Wicked) |
| BASE120 | 120 models | Master/Researcher | All tiers (complete coverage) |
- Status: ✅ Release-ready, ongoing validation
- Quality Achievement: 9.1/10 average (ChatGPT validation: 9.2/10)
- Scope: Complete validation of all 120 mental models across 6 transformations
- GitLab Reference: https://gitlab.com/hummbl-dev-group/hummbl-dev-project
- ✅ HIGH: BASE120 mental models, model definitions, automated quality metrics
⚠️ MEDIUM: Base-N framework design, tier definitions, wickedness scoring⚠️ LOW: Tier-to-Base mapping (planned empirical validation Q1-Q2 2026)
See Validation Evidence for complete details.
If you use this framework in your work, please cite:
@techreport{bowlby2025hummbl,
title={HUMMBL Unified Tier Framework v1.0: Integrating Problem Complexity, Learning Progression, and Base-N Architecture},
author={Bowlby, Reuben},
year={2025},
institution={HUMMBL, LLC},
url={https://github.com/hummbl-systems/hummbl-unified-tier-framework}
}APA Format: Bowlby, R. (2025). HUMMBL Unified Tier Framework v1.0: Integrating Problem Complexity, Learning Progression, and Base-N Architecture. HUMMBL, LLC.
- Problem Tier descriptive language (Tier 1-4)
- Learning Progression labels and characterizations
- Alternative categorization schemes
- Pedagogical framework insights
- Super-Wicked Problems Concept: Levin, K., Cashore, B., Bernstein, S., & Auld, G. (2012). Overcoming the tragedy of super wicked problems: constraining our future selves to ameliorate global climate change. Policy Sciences, 45(2), 123-152.
- Wicked Problems Concept: Rittel, H. W. J., & Webber, M. M. (1973). Dilemmas in a general theory of planning. Policy Sciences, 4(2), 155-169.
- Tier 5 (Super-Wicked) operationalization and quantitative criteria
- 5-question wickedness scoring methodology
- Base-N architecture and mathematical foundations
- BASE120 validation framework and empirical evidence
- Priority model system and learning progression algorithms
- Implementation protocols and assessment tools
Copyright © 2025 HUMMBL, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
This framework is proprietary intellectual property. See LICENSE.md for complete terms.
Key Restrictions:
- ✅ Educational and research use permitted with attribution
- ✅ Personal problem-solving applications allowed
- ❌ Commercial use requires explicit licensing
- ❌ Redistribution without attribution prohibited
- ❌ Claiming proprietary components as original work prohibited
For Commercial Licensing:
Contact: Reuben Bowlby, Chief Engineer
Email: Contact via GitLab
✅ Complete unified framework with all 8 sections + appendices
✅ BASE120 validation evidence integrated
✅ Quantitative wickedness scoring methodology
✅ Base-N selection framework (architectural design)
✅ Complete attribution and IP protection
- Base-N empirical testing study (Q1-Q2 2026)
- Tier-specific coverage validation (larger sample sizes)
- Additional worked examples and case studies
- Interactive assessment tools
- API specifications for integration
- Peer review submission preparation
We welcome contributions! Please see CONTRIBUTING.md for guidelines.
Contribution Types:
- 📝 Documentation improvements
- 🐛 Issue reporting (errors, inconsistencies)
- 💡 Use case examples and case studies
- 🔬 Empirical validation data
- 🌐 Translations
HUMMBL, LLC
Chief Engineer: Reuben Bowlby
- GitLab: https://gitlab.com/hummbl-dev-group/hummbl-dev-project
- GitHub: https://github.com/hummbl-systems/hummbl-unified-tier-framework
See CHANGELOG.md for complete version history.
Current Version: v1.0.0 (November 1, 2025)
Built with rigor. Validated with evidence. Designed for impact. 🎖️