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| Criterion | ![]() Operations ABC Analysis | ![]() Operations A3 Problem Solving | ![]() UX Research Affinity Diagramming | ![]() UX Research Empathy Mapping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | With many similar objects of differing economic significance, the method prioritizes effort by effect. It separates what needs regular steering from what rarely needs attention. | 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 research notes, feedback, or observations sit unconnected side by side, affinity diagramming sorts the raw material into solid themes. Many individual points turn into patterns that make decisions and opportunities clearer. | When a lot is assumed about a target group but little is seen jointly, empathy mapping makes knowledge and gaps directly comparable. The picture also shows which assumptions hold up and where evidence is missing. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Medium | Low | Low |
Timedifferent | 30-60 min | 45-90 min | 45–90 min | 30–60 min |
Participantsdifferent | 1-5 | 2-5 | 3-10 | 4-8 |
Formatdifferent | Async | Workshop + async | Workshop | Workshop |
Outputdifferent | ABC Classification, Focus Rules, Control List | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Empathy Map, Assumptions List, Research Gaps |
Tagsno overlap | PrioritizationOperationsPortfolio | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | SynthesisQualitativeWorkshop |



