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| Criterion |  UX Research Affinity Diagramming |  Operations 5 Whys |  Operations ALPEN Method |  Operations 8D Problem Solving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Purposedifferent | 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. | 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. | With an overloaded day full of too many tasks, a realistic picture of the day emerges. The method connects estimating, deciding, and buffer thinking so planning fits available energy and time. | For an acute quality or delivery problem, the method structures immediate protection and root cause work together. It keeps the situation stable while the actual cause is investigated cleanly. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | Low | Low | High |
Timedifferent | 45–90 min | 15-30 min | 10-20 min daily | 1-6 Wochen |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 2-6 | 1 | 4-10 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Async | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | Root cause notes, Countermeasures | Daily Plan, Time Estimates, Review Notes | 8D Report, Containment Plan, Root Cause Evidence, Corrective Action Plan |
Tagsno overlap | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | Root causeIncidentLeanProblem solving | PlanningTime managementProductivityOperations | QualityProblem solvingRoot cause |