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| Criterion | ![]() UX Research Affinity Diagramming | ![]() Operations Failure Mode and Effects Analysis | ![]() Operations A3 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 process, product, or service with noticeable failure risks, the method assesses possible failure modes in advance. It directs attention to combinations of occurrence, effect, and detectability. | 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. |
Complexitydifferent | Low | High | Medium |
Timedifferent | 45–90 min | 2-6 h | 45-90 min |
Participantsdifferent | 3-10 | 3-10 | 2-5 |
Formatdifferent | Workshop | Workshop | Workshop + async |
Outputdifferent | Theme clusters, Insight statements, Opportunity areas | FMEA Table, Risk Priority, Mitigation Actions | A3 Report, Action Plan, Root Cause Analysis |
Tagsno overlap | SynthesisQualitativeRoot cause | RiskQualityOperationsRoot cause | LeanProblem solvingCoachingOperations |
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