View methods side by side.
Choose up to four methods. Add them using the search and share the comparison by copying its link.
| Criterion |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Innovation Contradiction Analysis |  Innovation Crazy 8s |  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. | When a system should improve while another measure suffers as a result, the method makes the underlying conflict precisely formulable. It separates the desired effect from its side effect. This makes solutions possible that address the contradiction deliberately instead of half-heartedly. | With only a few minutes available and a still-fuzzy solution search, the method forces a wide range of variants. It produces fast sketches before the first idea can settle in, making different directions directly comparable and open to further development. | 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 | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 60-120 min | 8-15 min | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-5 | 2-8 | 1-10 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Contradiction Statement, Abstraction Notes, Solution Principles, Concept Ideas | Sketch Set, Idea Shortlist, Direction Options | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | ContradictionsInnovationProblem solving | BrainstormingSketchingSpeedDivergenceDesign sprint | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |