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| Criterion | ![]() Operations 5 Whys | ![]() Knowledge Modeling NeOn Methodology | ![]() Operations Root Cause Tree Analysis | ![]() 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. | The NeOn Methodology structures ontology work as a controlled process with reuse, scenarios, and reviews. It is useful when ontologies should not emerge ad hoc but modularly and reusably. | For a problem with several suspected causes, the method builds a causal structure instead of a mere list. It makes visible how causes connect and where the strongest points of leverage lie. | 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 | Medium | High |
Timedifferent | 15-30 min | Mehrere Wochen bis Monate | 1-3 h | 1-6 Wochen |
Participantsdifferent | 2-6 | 2-10 | 2-8 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Ontology Requirements Specification, Reuse Plan, Ontology Modules, Evaluation Report | Cause Tree, Evidence Notes, Countermeasures | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan |
Tagsno overlap | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | OntologyMethodologyReuseSemanticEngineering | Root causeTreeIncidentQuality | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause |



