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| Criterion | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving | ![]() Operations After-Action Review | ![]() Operations Kaizen Event | ![]() Operations 5 Whys |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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. | After missions or project phases with unclear outcomes, the method makes visible what actually happened and what can be learned from it. It separates course, effect, and causes so experience turns into solid improvement. | For a tightly scoped process segment with noticeable waste, the method bundles shared energy for change. It suits situations that call for fast learning loops and visible adjustments. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Low | Medium | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 20-45 min | 0.5-5 Tage | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-5 | 3-12 | 4-10 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Lessons learned, Action items, Event summary | Kaizen Charter, Waste List, Improvement Experiments, Standard Work Update | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | LearningOperationsImprovement | LeanContinuous improvementOperations | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |



