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Criterion
A3 Problem-Solving workspace showing the question, observations, and next decision.
Operations
A3 Problem Solving
Paper illustration for Soft Systems Methodology.
Systems Thinking
Soft Systems Methodology
Paper illustration of Family Tree Analysis with its method-specific working model.
Operations
Family Tree Analysis
Iceberg Model method illustration showing its working structure
Systems Thinking
Iceberg Model
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.Soft Systems Methodology helps explore unclear or politically charged problems systematically. Instead of forcing a quick answer, the method builds a shared understanding of perspectives and room for action.For a series of incidents with a similar pattern, the method arranges individual events as branches of a common origin. It makes visible which conditions keep recurring.The Iceberg Model separates visible events from patterns, structures, and mental models. This turns a single observation into a deeper understanding of why a problem keeps recurring.
Complexitydifferent
MediumHighMediumLow
Timedifferent
45-90 min0.5-3 Tage2-4 h30-60 min
Participantsdifferent
2-55-152-62-10
Formatdifferent
Workshop + asyncWorkshopWorkshop + asyncWorkshop + async
Outputdifferent
A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause AnalysisRich Picture, Root Definitions, Conceptual Models, Change AgendaFamily Tree Diagram, Pattern Notes, Systemic MeasuresIceberg Worksheet, Pattern Notes, Intervention Ideas
Tagsno overlap
LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations
Soft systemsComplexitySensemakingSystems thinking
Root causePatternsIncidentSystemic
Systems thinkingRoot causePatterns
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