Narrative Codebook – NF & NT

Narrative Framework (NAFRA) Codebook – Functions (NF) & Types (NT)

Families remain distinct: NF = content/factual, NT = expressive/stylistic. NF-8 and NT-19 are explicitly modeled as independent variables (X).

NF – Narrative Function NT – Narrative Type Z – Independent Variable X – Narration & Storytelling NF 8 (non expressive factual) or NT 19 (personal expressive nonfactual)

⚠️ Coding rule:
• Use an NF parent (e.g., NF1, NF2…) only when a passage cannot be reliably distinguished into one of its subcodes; otherwise code at the lowest valid NF subcode.
• Z variables = all NF parents, all NF subcodes, and all NT categories.
• X variables = NF8 (business narration) and NT19 (personal narration). These may be co-coded with any NF/NT code within their class, so NF 19 with NT 1; and NF 8 with NF 7.1.

Jump to NF Jump to NT

Narrative Functions – Content/Factual

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Codes	Code Book Name Definition	When to Use	When Not to Use	Examples
NF1 – Innovation & Creative Function	This narrative theme revolves around stories and messages that highlight the process of innovation, creativity, and the generation of novel ideas. It often focuses on how individuals or groups have introduced new and inventive solutions to address challenges or opportunities.	Use when stories highlight the process of innovation, creativity, and the generation of novel ideas.	Don't use if the focus is stability, tradition, or non-creative execution. Don't use for technology-specific detail → NF1.x.	Leadership promotes innovation through narratives that celebrate creative problem-solving, inspiring team members to think outside the box and contribute novel ideas. Parent NF only: if text clearly belongs to a subcode (NF1.1–NF1.3), code there.
NF1.1 Technology & Data	Focuses on the role of technology and data in driving innovation and streamlining processes, illustrating how cutting-edge tools enhance operational efficiencies.	Use when discussing the impact of technology and data on innovation and processes. The excerpt's main point is that technology/data drive innovation or efficiency (tools, platforms, architectures, analytics).	Don't use if tech/data is name-dropped but the real focus is (a) AI/quantum specifics → NF1.3, (b) market disruption → NF1.2, or (c) culture/team → NF2.x. Avoid when "technology" is a mere setting not the claim.	Leadership highlights how technological advancements streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Evidence words: platform, automation, pipeline, dataset, analytics, dashboard, digitization.
NF1.2 Disrupt to Transform	Emphasizes the transformative power of disruptive innovations that redefine industry standards and reshape markets.	Use when highlighting disruptive innovations that transform industries or markets.	Don't use for incremental change → NF5.1, or internal performance/process changes → NF5.2/NF1.1. Don't code on aspiration only without a disruption claim.	Leadership discusses how disruptive innovations pave the way for new business models and market opportunities. Look for "disrupt, redefine, leap, reshape, new market, platform shift."
NF1.3 AI & Quantum Computing	Concentrates on the advancements and applications of AI and quantum computing, portraying their potential to revolutionize data handling and processing capabilities.	Use when discussing advanced technological applications in AI and quantum computing. Specific AI/ML/LLM or quantum capabilities, models, pipelines, or outcomes are the topic.	Not suitable in discussions unrelated to high-tech advancements. Don't use for generic technology → NF1.1. Don't code when AI is metaphor ("AI-like"), or vague hype without reference to capability/application.	Leadership narrates the potential of AI and quantum computing in achieving groundbreaking data analysis and decision-making. If risk/ethics dominate, consider NF5.6 (risks).
NF2 – Group Dynamic/Togetherness Function/DEI	In this narrative theme, stories and messages emphasize the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within groups and communities. It explores the dynamics of working together, promoting harmony, and celebrating differences as strengths.	Use when narratives emphasize DEI within groups and communities.	Don't use if individual achievement is foregrounded (→ NT2), or when text is primarily about technical/strategic content (NF5).	Leadership communicates narratives that emphasize DEI, fostering a sense of togetherness and collaboration. Distinguish teamwork/task focus (NF2.1) vs. cultural/engagement focus (NF2.2).
NF2.1 Team Focus	Highlights the importance of teamwork and collective achievements in overcoming challenges, fostering a collaborative environment.	Use to emphasize teamwork and collaborative achievements. The unit credits collective action or team achievement (we/us, cross-functional wins).	Don't use when emphasis is culture/policy/engagement → NF2.2; or individual hero focus → don't force NF2.1 (consider NT2 + another NF).	Leadership talks about the power of teamwork in overcoming complex challenges and achieving goals. Consider with NF5.2 if overcoming specific obstacles is central.
NF2.2 Culture & Engagement	Discusses the cultivation of an inclusive organizational culture that values each team member's contribution, aiming to enhance engagement and satisfaction.	Mentions values, inclusion, belonging, engagement programs, climate, retention. Use when discussing organizational culture and engagement strategies.	Don't use if it's task teamwork on deliverables → NF2.1. Don't use for DEI metrics framed as strategy wins → consider NF5.x.	Leadership emphasizes building an inclusive culture where every member feels valued and engaged. If ethics/credibility rhetoric dominates, consider NT17 (Ethos).
NF3 – Friendship & Loyalty Function	This narrative theme centers on narratives that celebrate the enduring bonds of friendship and loyalty between individuals. It often highlights the trust, support, and mutual dedication that friends demonstrate in various situations.	Use when narratives celebrate enduring bonds of friendship and loyalty. Use when loyalty, trust, or relational bonds are explicitly emphasized.	Don't use when "friendship" is metaphorical or incidental; or when content is policy/values (→ NF3.1) vs. human-centered anecdotes (→ NF3.2).	Leadership uses friendship/loyalty narratives to reinforce a supportive team culture. Parent NF if coder cannot distinguish between values/policies vs. stories/empathy.
NF3.1 Family is at the Core	Describes organizational values that prioritize family and support systems, promoting balanced work-life integration.	When family values/support systems are central.	Avoid in professional contexts where personal life focus is inappropriate.	Leadership highlights support for work-life balance.
NF3.2 Humanistic Ground Persona	Personal and human-centered narratives that foster an open, supportive, empathetic workplace.	When personal/human-centered stories are shared.	Don't use if content is policy/value (family/support program) → NF3.1; or purely performance/strategy → NF5.x.	Leadership shares stories that underline the human aspect of business. Consider with NT18 (Pathos).
NF4 – Growth, Development, Opportunity, Potential Function	Stories within this narrative theme focus on personal or collective growth, development, seizing opportunities, and realizing potential. They often show how individuals or groups overcome challenges to achieve their aspirations.	Use when stories focus on growth, development, opportunity.	Don't use for growth framed only as revenue/market (→ NF5.4/5.5) or for training one-offs without sustained learning (→ NF4.1).	Leadership shares growth narratives inspiring full potential. Distinguish learning emphasis (NF4.1) vs. aspiration/expansion (NF4.2).
NF4.1 Life Long Learners	Repeated/structured learning emphasis (upskilling, PD, curricula, learning org). Ongoing personal and professional growth; commitment to continuous learning and adaptation.	Emphasizing continuous learning & growth.	Don't use for one-off training mentions or when growth is market/revenue → NF4.2 or NF5.x.	Leadership encourages continuous professional development. Look for cadence: program, academy, continuous, iterate.
NF4.2 Speaking Language of Growth	Pursuit of growth and seizing opportunities; ambition and forward-thinking.	Discussing aspirations and growth opportunities.	Don't use when growth is via diversification → NF5.5; or it's vision rhetoric without growth content → NF5.7.	Leadership advocates a culture that pushes boundaries. Consider NF5.4 if competition angles are explicit.
NF5 – Change & Performance Function	Narratives in this category emphasize change, adaptability, and performance improvement. They explore how individuals or organizations embrace change, evolve, and strive for higher levels of performance and achievement.	When narratives emphasize change, adaptability, performance.	Don't use for one-off disruption (NF1.2), or if it's strictly vision without performance (NF5.3/5.7).	Leadership links adaptability with performance and long-term success. Parent NF only if coder cannot distinguish subcodes NF5.1–NF5.9.
NF5.1 Change is Key	Necessity of embracing change to remain competitive and innovative.	When change is central, esp. transformation.	Don't use if the text details specific obstacles → NF5.2, strategy clarity → NF5.3, market disruption → NF1.2.	Leadership stresses adaptability in fast markets.
NF5.2 Challenges	Strategic management and overcoming of challenges; resilience and adaptability.	Highlight how obstacles are approached and overcome.	Don't use if threat/risk as exposure is central → NF5.6; or if it's a victory arc without operational detail → consider NT2 with another NF.	Leadership explains strategies for major obstacles.
NF5.3 Clarity of Strategic Vision	Clear, well-defined vision guiding decisions and long-term objectives.	When clarity in future goals/strategies is discussed.	Don't use when text is planning mechanics/roadmaps → NF5.8/NF5.9; or purely inspirational → NF5.7.	Leadership outlines strategic objectives and pathway.
NF5.4 Competition	Competitive dynamics; strategic positioning to outperform competitors.	Discussing competitive dynamics & strategy.	Don't use when comparison is internal (benchmarks, OKRs) → another NF5; or when it's collaborative ecosystem.	Leadership on landscape & positioning.
NF5.5 Diversification	Diversification to enhance resilience and reduce dependence.	When diversification is important.	Don't use for workforce diversity → NF2; or for feature variety without strategy.	Leadership endorses diversification for risk mgmt.
NF5.6 Risk and Threats	Proactive risk/threat management to ensure stability and security.	Discuss frameworks for risks & crises.	Don't use if it's generic "challenges" (→ NF5.2). Don't code fear appeals/tragedy tone without management content (that's NT3 co-code at most).	Leadership details risk frameworks & response.
NF5.7 Visionary Expressing Vision	Inspirational leadership vision motivating the organization.	When a visionary leader shares future direction.	Don't use if it's vision clarity without inspiration (→ NF5.3) or planning mechanics (→ NF5.8/5.9).	Compelling future vision motivating the team.
NF5.8 Strategy Center Stage	Strategic planning central to success; guides future actions.	When strategic planning is key.	Don't use when the text is broad vision (NF5.3/5.7), tactical firefighting (NF5.2), or planning is incidental.	Role of strategic planning in operational excellence.
NF5.9 Planning the Future	Forward-thinking, proactive planning for future challenges/opportunities.	Discuss proactive future planning.	Don't use if the text is retrospective (no forward planning), or it argues planning's centrality without steps (→ NF5.8), or it's pure inspiration (→ NF5.7).	Forward planning for future success & sustainability.
NF6 – Honesty & Transparency Function	This narrative theme highlights the values of honesty and transparency. Stories within this theme often underscore the importance of truthfulness, open communication, and ethical behavior in relationships and organizations.	Use when narratives highlight honesty and transparency.	Don't use if merely neutral reporting, or if ethics/credibility is the thrust → NT17.	Leadership communicates openly about challenges and successes to build trust. Consider with NF5.6 if transparency relates to risk reporting.
NF6.1 Transparent & Honest	Transparency and honesty in all communications to build trust internally and externally.	Emphasize transparency & honesty.	Don't infer from neutral reporting; require explicit claims or acts of openness. Don't use when the thrust is ethos rhetoric only → (consider)NT17.	Commitment to transparency and open dialogue.
NF7 – Motivational and Inspiration Function	Narratives in this category serve as sources of motivation and inspiration. They feature stories of individuals who overcome obstacles, achieve remarkable feats, or demonstrate unwavering determination, inspiring others to reach their own goals.	When motivation/inspiration are desired outcomes.	Don't use for casual encouragement, humor, or culture (→ NF7.2). Don't infer if motivation isn't stated.	Stories of resilience and determination to fuel motivation. Consider NT2 (struggle/victory arc).
NF7.1 Passion and Drive	High motivation and commitment driving initiatives.	Illustrate motivation & commitment.	Don't use for fun/culture → NF7.2; don't infer from generic "busy/fast-paced." Require stated motivation/commitment.	Passion and drive fueling initiatives. Consider with NT2.
NF7.2 Play at Work, Work As Fun	Fun integrated into productivity; enhances satisfaction and creativity.	When culture promotes fun as part of productivity.	Don't use for one-off celebrations or jokes; don't use in formal/solemn contexts where "fun" is incidental.	Creativity and enjoyment as everyday practice. Consider with NT1 (Humor).
NF8 – Sharing Information, Exchanging Story X	This narrative theme emphasizes the exchange of information and stories. It often centers on the role of communication and storytelling as means of sharing knowledge, wisdom, and experiences among individuals or groups.	When the theme emphasizes knowledge sharing and story exchange.	Don't use if persuasion/emotion is the goal without actual exchange (→ NT17/NT18). Don't use when claim is directive only, not storytelling.	NF8 is an X variable and can be co-coded with any NF/NT. Use as an overlay channel, not as the only substantive NF. If expressive and personal, consider NT 19. Leadership fosters a collaborative learning environment through story exchange.

Narrative Types – Expressive/Stylistic

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Codes	Code Book Name Definition	When to Use	When Not to Use	Examples
NT1 – Orientation Narrative: Humor	Orientation Narrative: Humor: This narrative theme involves the use of humor, wit, and comedy to engage the audience and convey a message or story in a lighthearted or amusing way.	When aiming to entertain/engage via humor.	Don't use if the tone is simply conversational or light without humor. Don't use if humor is incidental or a passing phrase in an otherwise serious point.	"Some say politics is show business for ugly people — but I think I look pretty good tonight." Humor in leadership speech often aims to relax tension, build rapport, or make the audience feel at ease. If laughter or amusement is implied, use NT1. If "fun" is framed as workplace culture, consider NF7.2.
NT2 – Orientation Narrative: Triumph Overcome Adversity and Challenges	Orientation Narrative: Triumph Overcome Adversity and Challenges: This narrative theme focuses on stories or messages that highlight individuals or groups overcoming difficult circumstances, adversity, or challenges, often leading to a successful outcome or victory.	When inspiring/motivating via overcoming challenges.	Don't use for generic success claims without explicit adversity. Don't use if perseverance itself is the focus (consider NT5).	"They said our company would collapse. Today we lead the market." Key is the "before and after" story. Often used by leaders to inspire confidence.
NT3 – Orientation Narrative: Tragedy or Threat	Orientation Narrative: Tragedy or Threat: This narrative theme revolves around narratives that emphasize tragic events or situations that pose a threat or danger to individuals or communities. It often explores the emotional impact and consequences of such events.	When discussing emotional impact/consequences.	Don't use for routine risks or obstacles (consider NF5.6). Don't use for neutral reporting without tragic/emotional framing.	"We mourn the lives lost in this devastating earthquake." Audience should feel gravity, sympathy, or alarm.
NT4 – Context Narrative: Lessons-learned	Context Narrative: Lessons-learned: This narrative theme involves stories or messages that aim to convey the lessons and insights gained from specific experiences or situations. It emphasizes personal growth and wisdom.	When emphasizing lessons/morals.	Don't use if story is descriptive only, with no explicit lesson. Don't use if the message is framed as open questioning (consider NT10).	"What I learned from that failure is never to underestimate preparation." Sharing lessons to guide decisions. Lessons must be clearly stated; implied lessons are not enough.
NT5 – Context Narrative: Resilience and/or Perseverance	Context Narrative: Resilience and/or Perseverance: This narrative theme focuses on narratives that highlight the ability of individuals or groups to bounce back from adversity, demonstrating strength, determination, and perseverance in the face of challenges.	When highlighting perseverance.	Don't use if the story ends in victory/triumph (consider NT2). Don't use for minor obstacles.	"Despite every setback, we never stopped building." Perseverance stories to sustain focus.
NT6 – Belief Core Value Narrative: Core Values & Moral Code	Belief Core Value Narrative: Core Values & Moral Code: This narrative theme is centered on stories or messages that emphasize the fundamental principles and ethical standards that guide an individual, a group, or a society's behavior and decision-making.	When emphasizing core values/ethics.	Don't use if leader is appealing to their own credibility/ethos (consider NT17). Don't use if values are only implied.	"Integrity and fairness must guide every decision we make." Reinforcing moral codes to align teams.
NT7 – Belief Core Value Narrative: Religious Beliefs	Belief Core Value Narrative: Religious Beliefs: This narrative theme delves into stories or messages that explore the religious beliefs, practices, and experiences of individuals or communities, often highlighting the role of faith in their lives.	When sharing religious stories/experiences.	Don't use for metaphoric religious language ("gospel of innovation"). Don't use if spirituality is vague.	"As the Gita teaches us, we must act without attachment to results." Valuing religious diversity and inclusion.
NT8 – Curiosity & Questioning Narrative: Listening	Curiosity & Questioning Narrative: Listening: This narrative theme emphasizes the importance of active listening as a means of understanding others, building relationships, and gathering information. It may highlight the benefits of being a good listener.	When emphasizing listening.	Don't use if listening is one-way ("you should listen to me"). Don't use if "listening" is metaphorical ("markets are listening").	"I've listened to the workers on the floor — they want change." Listening as part of collaboration.
NT9 – Curiosity & Questioning Narrative: Feedback	Curiosity & Questioning Narrative: Feedback: This narrative theme revolves around the process of giving and receiving feedback as a means of improvement, whether in personal relationships or professional settings.	Discussing feedback processes.	Don't use if feedback is one-off, symbolic, or without response.	"After hearing feedback from customers, we redesigned the product." Feedback culture for continuous improvement.
NT10 – Curiosity & Questioning Narrative: Questioning	Curiosity & Questioning Narrative: Questioning: This narrative theme focuses on the act of asking questions and seeking answers. It may emphasize the role of curiosity and inquiry in learning and problem-solving.	When emphasizing inquiry and exploration.	Don't use rhetorical questions posed only for drama ("Who doesn't want success?"). Don't use if questioning is incidental.	"How can we build a future that serves everyone?" Encouraging thoughtful questioning.
NT11 – Rhetoric Narratives: Metaphor & Simile	Rhetoric Narratives: Metaphor & Simile: These are literary devices used in rhetoric. A metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a direct comparison between two unrelated things to highlight a shared quality. A simile is a figure of speech that compares two things using "like" or "as."	Create imagery/creative comparisons.	Don't use if figurative phrasing is incidental.	"Our economy is a ship weathering a storm." Metaphor to make complex ideas accessible.
NT12 – Rhetoric Narratives: Cause & Effect	Rhetoric Narratives: Cause & Effect: This narrative theme explores the relationships between events or actions and their consequences, emphasizing the cause-and-effect dynamics in various scenarios.	When emphasizing causality.	Don't use for correlations implied without causality.	"Because we invested in education, our economy grew stronger." Showing impacts of decisions.
NT13 – Other Narratives: Euphemisms	Other Narratives: Euphemisms: Euphemisms are expressions used to substitute mild, less direct, or more polite words or phrases for potentially harsh, blunt, or sensitive language. They are often employed to convey difficult or sensitive topics in a more socially acceptable manner.	Use when leader deliberately softens reality ("restructuring" for "layoffs").	Don't use if phrasing is just polite, not a true euphemism.	"We are right-sizing our workforce" (for layoffs). Tactful phrasing for difficult messages.
NT14 – Other Narratives: Chiasmus	Other Narratives: Chiasmus: Chiasmus is a rhetorical device in which the order of words or phrases in one clause is reversed in the following clause, creating a balanced or mirrored structure. For example, "Fair is foul, and foul is fair."	When stylistic symmetry is desired.	Don't use for parallelism without reversal.	"We shape our buildings, and afterwards our buildings shape us." Memorable mirrored phrasing.
NT15 – Other Narratives: Logos Inductive/Deductive	Other Narratives: Logos Inductive/Deductive: These are forms of reasoning. Inductive reasoning involves drawing general conclusions from specific observations, while deductive reasoning starts with a general statement or premise and derives specific conclusions from it.	Use when argument structure is clear: builds up from examples or applies a principle.	Don't use if reasoning is implicit or narrative-based without logic steps.	"Every great nation invests in education; therefore, we must invest too." Clear, coherent reasoning in narratives.
NT16 – Other Narratives: Paradox and/or Contrast	Other Narratives: Paradox and/or Contrast: This narrative theme explores paradoxical or contrasting elements in a story or message to create depth and provoke thought.	Use when tension is built by paradox ("less is more") or sharp contrast ("freedom vs. security").	Don't use for simple comparisons or differences.	"We are rich in resources but poor in equality." Highlighting contradictions to spur reflection.
NT17 – Other Narratives: Ethos	Other Narratives: Ethos: Ethos is one of the modes of persuasion in rhetoric. It refers to the persuasive appeal of a speaker's or writer's credibility, ethics, and authority. Establishing ethos involves demonstrating expertise, trustworthiness, and a sense of shared values with the audience to gain their trust and persuade them.	Use when the leader asserts credibility ("with 30 years of service…," "as your president").	Don't use if focus is on the value itself (→ NT6). Don't use if ethos is background (e.g., title slide).	"With 30 years of experience, I can lead this transformation." Demonstrating integrity and expertise.
NT18 – Other Narratives: Pathos	Other Narratives: Pathos: Pathos is another mode of persuasion in rhetoric. It involves appealing to the audience's emotions, values, and feelings. Using pathos, a speaker or writer aims to evoke empathy, sympathy, and emotional responses in the audience to support their argument or viewpoint.	Use when leader deliberately stirs emotion (pride, grief, hope, anger).	Don't use if emotion is background tone but not part of the argument.	"When a child goes hungry, our entire nation fails." Emotional connection to strengthen buy-in.
NT19 – Other Narratives: Personal Expressive Narration X	Narration is the act of telling a story or recounting a series of events, often with a particular perspective or purpose in mind.	When telling a story or recounting events with a purpose/perspective. Use when the leader recounts a story/sequence of events.	Don't use for directives, claims, or arguments without narrative flow.	"Let me tell you what happened when I visited the village last year." Using narration as a fundamental storytelling technique.