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| Criterion |  Operations A3 Problem Solving |  Innovation Reverse Brainstorming |  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. | For persistent errors or blockages, the method shifts the view to the opposite of the desired effect. It exposes the mechanics of failure and makes hidden causes easier to grasp. This makes improvement more concrete and the problem clearer. | 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 | Low |
Timedifferent | 45-90 min | 30-60 min | 15-30 min |
Participantsdifferent | 2-5 | 3-12 | 2-6 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Reverse Ideas, Risk Themes, Solution Ideas | Root cause notes, Countermeasures |
Tagsno overlap | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | BrainstormingIdeationCreativityRisk | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving |
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