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| Criterion | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving | ![]() Operations Process Mapping | ![]() Agile Mad Sad Glad | ![]() Agile 4Ls Retrospective |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | With a confusing workflow that has many handoffs, the method makes the actual process visible. It shows where work is passed on, delayed, or duplicated, so improvement targets the right spots. | When a team's or workshop's mood needs to become readable, it structures emotional signals with little setup. It makes strain, relief, and sources of energy tangible. | When a sprint should not only be assessed but also learned from, it captures experience in clear learning categories. It records what worked, what's missing, and what should run differently next time. |
Complexitydifferent | Medium | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 1-3 h | 30-60 min | 45–75 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-5 | 3-10 | 3-10 | Team members involved |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Process Map, Handoff List, Improvement Backlog | Emotion Board, Themes, Action Items | 4Ls Board, Learning Themes, Improvement Actions |
Tagsno overlap | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | ProcessOperationsImprovement | RetrospectiveTeamReflection | RetrospectiveLearningReflectionTeam |



