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| Criterion |  Operations 5 Whys |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Operations ABC Analysis |  Operations Barrier Analysis |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 a complex deviation with several people involved, the method bundles problem, analysis, and decision onto one page. It creates a shared working space where causes, countermeasures, and follow-up fit together. | With many similar objects of differing economic significance, the method prioritizes effort by effect. It separates what needs regular steering from what rarely needs attention. | For a risk that can only be managed through multiple layers of protection, the method examines the effectiveness of each barrier. It shows where safeguards are missing, too weak, or fail under real conditions. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | Medium |
Timedifferent | 15-30 min | 45-90 min | 30-60 min | 2-4 h |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 2-5 | 1-5 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | ABC Classification, Focus Rules, Control List | Barrier Inventory, Failure Analysis per Barrier, Action Backlog |
Tagsno overlap | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | PrioritizationOperationsPortfolio | Root causeSafetyIncident |