View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Operations 5 Whys |  Operations 8D Problem Solving |  Decision Making Decision Matrix |  Operations Kepner-Tregoe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | For a single, hard-to-explain deviation, the method exposes the causal chain behind the visible symptom. It keeps the cause open until a controllable condition emerges instead of a mere description. | For an acute quality or delivery problem, the method structures immediate protection and root cause work together. It keeps the situation stable while the actual cause is investigated cleanly. | When several options collide with several criteria, comparison quickly becomes subjective. A Decision Matrix makes the trade-off visible and brings weighting, criteria, and options into a shared logic. | For a disturbance that's hard to pin down, the method cleanly separates problem, cause, and decision. It reduces mixing when symptoms allow several interpretations. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 15-30 min | 1-6 Wochen | 45-90 min | 2-8 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 4-10 | 2-8 | 2-8 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan | Decision Matrix, Scoring Rationale, Selected Option | Problem Analysis, Decision Analysis, Risk Plan |
Tagsno overlap | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause | DecisionCriteriaScoringTradeoffs | Problem solvingRoot causeDecisionOperations |