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| Criterion |  Operations 5 Whys |  Operations Family Tree Analysis |  Operations 8D Problem Solving |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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 series of incidents with a similar pattern, the method arranges individual events as branches of a common origin. It makes visible which conditions keep recurring. | 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. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 15-30 min | 2-4 h | 1-6 Wochen | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 2-6 | 4-10 | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Family Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic Measures | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |