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| Criterion |  Operations 5 Whys |  Operations Kepner-Tregoe |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Operations 8D 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 disturbance that's hard to pin down, the method cleanly separates problem, cause, and decision. It reduces mixing when symptoms allow several interpretations. | When research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 15-30 min | 2-8 h | 45–90 min | 1-6 Wochen |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 2-8 | 3-10 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Problem Analysis, Decision Analysis, Risk Plan | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan |
Tags1 shared | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | Problem solvingRoot causeDecisionOperations | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause |